Class 11 English - HARYANA
Supplementary: Mothers Day
Mothers Day by J.B. Priestley is a witty and satirical one-act play included in the Class 11 English supplementary reader for the Haryana Board (BSEH). The play explores the theme of gender roles and domestic exploitation within a modern British family. It revolves around Mrs. Annie Pearson, a meek and overworked mother who is taken for granted by her self-centered husband and two grown-up children, Doris and Cyril. With the help of her bold, outspoken friend Mrs. Fitzgerald, who possesses mystical knowledge of magic, Mrs. Pearson swaps personalities to teach her family a much-needed lesson in respect and appreciation.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Domestic Exploitation
The play highlights how homemakers are often taken for granted and overworked by family members who fail to appreciate their unpaid labor.
Personality Swap Technique
A dramatic device where Mrs. Fitzgerald uses her magical skill to exchange souls and personalities with Mrs. Pearson to stand up to the family.
Role Reversal
When Mrs. Pearson (with Mrs. Fitzgerald's persona) refuses to pamper her family, smokes, drinks, and demands respect, shocking her husband and children.
Satire on Modern Family Dynamics
A humorous critique of modern family relationships where individual selfishness overshadows mutual care and household responsibilities.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Haryana Board (BSEH) Class 11 English examination, this chapter frequently appears in the literature section. It typically carries 4 to 6 marks, featuring short answer questions about character traits, plot developments, and long answer questions testing thematic understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mrs. Pearson was unhappy because her husband and children treated her like an unpaid servant, expecting her to run after them constantly without showing any gratitude or respect.
Mrs. Pearson was unhappy because her husband and children treated her like an unpaid servant, expecting her to run after them constantly without showing any gratitude or respect.
How did Mrs. Fitzgerald help Mrs. Pearson?
Mrs. Fitzgerald used her magic to swap personalities with Mrs. Pearson so that Mrs. Pearson could act tough and teach her family how to behave respectfully.
What lesson does the play teach at the end?
The play teaches that mutual respect, appreciation, and sharing of responsibilities are essential for a healthy and happy family life.
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