Family Obligation and Conflict

Where it surfaces

• I

  Sally's relationship with her brother Fillmore shows tension due to his condescending attitude and her disapproval of his pomposity.

• II

  Sally and Fillmore's argument highlights the tension between family loyalty and personal ambition, as Fillmore wants to distance himself from his past and Sally criticizes his pretensions.

• V

  Sally's story about her uncle's harshness and her decision to leave home highlights the tension between family duty and personal freedom.

• III: The Dignified Mr. Carmyle

  Bruce Carmyle's rigid adherence to family expectations contrasts with Sally's advocacy for Ginger's independence, illustrating the tension between individual desires and familial duty.

• III

  Bruce Carmyle's disapproval of Ginger's actions and his concern for family reputation highlight the tension between individual choices and familial expectations.

• IV: Ginger in Dangerous Mood

  Ginger's resentment towards his family, particularly Uncle Donald, is a central focus. The dinner invitation is a 'royal command' that he feels compelled to obey, fueling his rebellious mood.

• V: Sally Hears News

  Sally's decision to return to the boardinghouse is framed as avoiding being a 'female Fillmore,' showing her conflict with her brother's values. The news of Fillmore's engagement to Miss Winch also introduces a new family dynamic.

• VI: First Aid for Fillmore

  Sally's decision to invest her legacy in Fillmore's theatrical venture is driven by family loyalty and a desire to help her brother, despite her usual prudence.

• III

  Sally feels a sense of sisterly commiseration for Fillmore and steps in to support him during his public humiliation.

• I

  Sally's playful teasing of Fillmore and her identification with Gerald's success show the intertwining of family and personal aspirations.

• II

  Ginger's defiance of his uncle Donald and the family's rejection of him, as described by Carmyle.

• X: Sally in the Shadows

  Sally's frustration with Fillmore's reckless spending and her inability to influence him highlights the tension between family loyalty and personal concern.

• II

  Sally's concern for Fillmore's reckless spending and her inability to control him creates tension between them.

• XII: Some Letters for Ginger

  Sally feels judged by Carmyle's family and ultimately leaves in disgrace, while also dealing with Fillmore's schemes.

• II

  Fillmore's disappointment at Sally's rejection of Carmyle highlights the tension between personal choice and family expectations.

• XIV: Mr. Abrahams Re-Engages an Old Employee

  Sally's loyalty to Fillmore is tested as she hears of his misfortunes, and Mrs. Fillmore's concern for her husband's financial ruin strains the family.

• II

  Fillmore's avoidance and Gladys's delivery of bad news highlight family tensions and obligations.

• XV: Uncle Donald Speaks His Mind

  Uncle Donald's confrontation embodies the tension between individual desires and family expectations.

• V

  Sally's sense of duty to keep her word conflicts with her personal desires.

• XVII: Sally Lays a Ghost

  Gerald's destructive rage stems from his sense of betrayal by Elsa, reflecting the conflict within their relationship.

• II

  Gerald's destructive outburst stems from his wife Elsa's perceived betrayal, highlighting marital conflict.

• XVIII: Journey's End

  Sally's concern for Fillmore's well-being and her relief that Gladys is managing him reflect family dynamics and obligations.