The Dear Departed - Summary and Interpretation
Overview The tragic reality of contemporary nuclear families, torn apart by personal interests and aspirations, is illustrated in the story Dear Departed. The story takes place at the Slater's home, reflecting society as a whole. Mrs. Slater resides with her two daughters, Mr. Abel Merryweather's daughters. Elizabeth, the other daughter, and her spouse Ben continue their own lives. Summary and Interpretation Merryweather Is Still Lying Down The two sisters don't get along well since they fight all the time when they're together. Henry, the spouse of Mrs. Slater, and their daughter Victoria reside in the house with her father, although they don't always give a damn about his well-being. Mrs. Slater discovers her father unconscious and stretched out on his bed one day. She declares him deceased, assuming the worse. As an expression of respect for her father's passing, she asks Victoria to change into sober attire. Greed and...