An Analysis Of Susan Glaspell s A Heavy Conscience

A Heavy Conscience Trifles by Susan Glaspell is a short play built around the murder of John Wright. One might say that this play is dull and boring. However, that is far from the case. There are numerous entwined themes and ideas throughout the play. With closer examination of Glaspell’s work it is clear that there is a far greater plot in action. Mrs. Minnie Wright has been arrested for the murder of her husband while the investigation is active. Interestingly enough the murder is not the focused of this play. The focus is how two wives Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters identify with the accused. Throughout the play the wives uncover several seemingly insignificant clues which provide insight on the daily life Mrs. Wright before the death of her husband. Although both women ultimately end up identifying themselves with Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Hale appeared to only aid Mrs. Wright due to the overwhelming guilt and shame she feels after learning of the circumstances Mrs. Wright lived in. Mrs. Hale feels guilt and shame for not noticing the confinement and isolation of Mrs. Wright’s life. Mrs. Hale knew Mrs. Wright before she was married back when she was Minnie Foster, so Mrs. Hale feels as though she should have been able to help her. Periodically throughout the play Mrs. Hale reminisces over the former Minnie Foster. She recalls enjoyable and happy memories of Minnie when she was full of life. She goes on and states, â€Å"She used to wear pretty clothes and be lively, when she wasShow MoreRelatedAn Analysis Of Susan Glaspell s A Heavy Conscience Essay984 Words   |  4 Pages A Heavy Conscience Trifles by Susan Glaspell is a short play built around the murder of John Wright. One might say that this play is dull and boring. However, that is far from the case. There are numerous entwined themes and ideas throughout the play. With closer examination of Glaspell’s work it is clear that there is a far greater plot in action. Mrs. Minnie Wright has been arrested for the murder of her husband while the investigation is active. Interestingly enough the murder is not the focused