4.3.2 - The Dear Departed: A Comedy in One Act by Stanley Houghton

Book Back Questions

1. Why did the sisters compete with each other to have the old man with them?

The sisters competed with each other to have the old man with them because of selfish reasons. Both Mrs. Slater and Mrs. Jordan were interested in their father’s money and property. When Abel Merryweather announced that he would give all his money to the daughter in whose house he died, the sisters became greedy. They were afraid of losing their share in the inheritance. Instead of showing real love or concern for their father, they began to quarrel and accuse each other. Each sister tried to prove that she cared more for him. Their competition clearly shows their hypocrisy and materialistic nature. Thus, the sisters wanted their father with them only to gain his wealth, not out of genuine affection.

2. Sketch the character of Abel Merryweather.

Abel Merryweather is an old man who is sharp, witty, and observant. Though his daughters think he is dead, he turns out to be very much alive. He clearly understands the selfish nature of his daughters and their husbands. Abel is bold enough to scold Mrs. Slater for taking his bureau and slippers without permission. He enjoys tea and food and behaves cheerfully. When he learns that his daughters were discussing his death and property, he cleverly teaches them a lesson. His decision to change his will and marry Mrs. Shorrock shows his independence and sense of humor. Abel is intelligent, humorous, and practical, and he exposes the hypocrisy of his family.

3. How does Mrs. Slater plan to outshine the Jordans?

Mrs. Slater plans to outshine the Jordans by secretly taking her father’s belongings before they arrive. She gives Henry her father’s new slippers and shifts the new bureau from her father’s room to her own bedroom. She replaces it with an old chest of drawers. She also takes away her father’s new clock. Mrs. Slater locks the front door to prevent interruption while moving the furniture. Her actions clearly show her greed and cunning nature. She wants to appear superior to her sister by claiming more of the property. Thus, Mrs. Slater tries to gain an advantage over the Jordans through dishonest means.

4. What happened to Mr. Merryweather’s new slippers?

Mr. Merryweather’s new slippers were taken by Mrs. Slater and given to her husband Henry. When Abel Merryweather later enters the room alive, he immediately notices Henry wearing his slippers. He becomes angry and takes them back from Henry. This incident exposes Mrs. Slater’s dishonesty and greed. The slippers become a symbol of the selfish behavior of the Slaters. Abel’s reaction also shows that he is alert and not weak as others believe. Thus, the new slippers return to their rightful owner, and Mrs. Slater is embarrassed by her actions.

5. Who is Victoria?

Victoria is the ten-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Slater. She is innocent, honest, and observant. Unlike the adults, she does not understand greed and selfishness. She is surprised when her mother tells her that her grandfather is dead. Victoria questions her mother about taking her grandfather’s belongings. She also reveals important truths, such as her grandfather not going to pay the insurance premium but going to the Ring-O-Bells instead. Most importantly, she brings the shocking news that her grandfather is alive and moving. Through Victoria, the playwright highlights innocence and truth. She acts as the moral voice in the play.