Act IV

Act IV

Setting and Developments

  • Act IV centres around the unexpected appearance of the Morrison’s prodigal son, John, causing a disruption in the flat.

Important Characters

  • John Morrison: The eldest son of the Morrison family, having fled home years prior due to a row with his father.

Major Plot Points

  • The entry of John, causing a surprise and shock among the family, pivots the narrative.
  • His escapades and his current roguish character unequivocally reveal the choices he made, and the ramifications of poverty.
  • There is a clear tension between John and his father, which exposes long-seated familial discord.
  • The authorities come to the house urgently looking for John, further highlighting his bad reputation and illicit activities.
  • The truth about John’s thievery and deceit comes to light, causing turmoil and disappointment.
  • Alec’s stern attitude towards John indicates his anger and non-acceptance toward his nephew’s lifestyle.
  • Maggie’s struggle to protect John, despite his wrongdoings, exemplifies a mother’s unconditional love and concern.
  • John’s fleeing, leaving behind his family in the face of danger, depicts his self-centered nature.

Key Themes

  • Family Discord: John’s disturbing presence highlights the effects of a dysfunctional and stressful family.
  • Poverty and Crime: John being involved in crime denotes the corrosive influence of poverty on individuals’ behaviours and choices.
  • Self-Centredness vs Unconditional Love: The contrast between John’s self-centred nature and Maggie’s unconditional love emphasises the starkly divergent ways in which individuals respond to adversity.

Quotations for Discussion

  • Maggie, regarding John: “He’s mixed up in somethin’…” This highlights the mother’s intuition and concern towards her son’s activities.
  • John, on the rich: “…they think they have a right to everything.” His words depict his resentment towards societal disparities.

Act Conclusion

  • The act concludes with the focus back on the struggling family, dealing with the aftermath of John’s appearance and subsequent escape. The theme of resilience is boldly portrayed, as the family members stand their ground, ready to face the next adversity that comes their way.