Character: Jenny

Character Analysis

Jenny Morrison: The youngest daughter of the Morrison family, who provides a viewpoint into the effects of living conditions on children’s health.

Major Character Traits and Actions

Jenny is sensitive and observant, particularly regarding her family’s situation.
She suffers from tuberculosis, a direct result of the terrible living conditions the Morrison family face.
Through her sickness, Jenny symbolises the physical toll that poverty and poor living conditions can take.
Even though she is often unwell, Jenny tries to bring positivity and light into the flat.

Plot Points Involving Jenny

Jenny’s illness is introduced early on, an indication of the devastating effect of poverty on children’s health.
Instances of her sickness are repeatedly referred to throughout the play, each time serving as a stark reminder of the dire circumstances of the Morrison family.
The recurrence of Jenny’s coughing fits, and the family’s worry about them, emphasise the constant undercurrent of anxiety about health in poor families.

Key Themes Linked to Jenny

Childhood in Poverty: Jenny’s character is vital in understanding the theme of childhood in poverty. Her sickness and the impact on her life depict the brutal reality of children growing up in impoverished conditions.
Hope and Innocence: Despite her illness and the harshness of her life, Jenny maintains a certain innocence and hopefulness. This presents a contrast to the grim reality of her families’ life and adds a touch of positivity to the narrative.
Effects of Poor Living Conditions: Highlighted by her illness, the theme of the dire effects of inadequate living conditions is made more tangible by the character of Jenny.

Quotations for Discussion

Maggie referring to Jenny’s illness: “It’s this damned dampness. It’s in her chest an’ it won’t come out.” This showcases Maggie’s desperate concern and points towards the family’s poor living conditions.
Jenny, displaying her innocence: “When I get better, can I go back to school?” The innocence of Jenny’s question juxtaposed with the gloom of the situation adds depth to her character, indicating the daily struggle of children in poverty.

Character Conclusion

Jenny’s character is essentially tragic yet remains a beacon of hope throughout the play. Her innocent spirit, despite the sorrows surrounding her, shines a small light in the bleakness. Jenny’s presence in the plot bolastically includes the effects of poverty and poor living conditions on children within the wider narrative of ‘Men Should Weep.’