In the short story "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the protagonist Lizabeth navigates several conflicts that contribute to her coming-of-age journey. Here’s how her role plays out in each of these conflicts:
Man vs. Man
In the "man vs. man" conflict, Lizabeth experiences tension primarily with her father and her peers. The conflict with her father arises when Lizabeth struggles to understand his grief and the harshness of his response to their poverty. She feels a sense of rebellion against him as she grapples with her own emotions and the pressures of adolescence. Additionally, Lizabeth faces conflict with her peers, particularly in her interactions with them as they tease and belittle Miss Lottie, an elderly woman in their neighborhood. When Lizabeth destroys Miss Lottie’s marigolds, this act symbolizes her internal struggle and the consequences of her actions toward others, illustrating the conflicts she faces in relationships with those around her.
Man vs. Himself
The "man vs. himself" conflict is one of the most significant aspects of Lizabeth's character development. Throughout the story, she grapples with her identity as she transitions from childhood to adolescence. This internal conflict is highlighted during the moment of her emotional outburst when she destroys the marigolds. Lizabeth is torn between her childhood innocence and the harsh realities of adulthood. After realizing the consequences of her actions, she reflects on her loss of innocence and her understanding of empathy and compassion. This moment of self-realization marks a pivotal point in her growth, as she begins to grapple with complex emotions like anger, confusion, and ultimately, remorse.
Man vs. Society
Lizabeth's struggle with society is depicted in her interactions with the social and economic conditions of her environment. Growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood, she feels the weight of societal expectations and the limitations placed on her family. The conflict manifests when Lizabeth recognizes the broader societal injustices experienced by Miss Lottie and her community. Her decision to destroy the marigolds, which represent beauty and hope amidst poverty, reflects her frustration with the oppressive realities she faces. Ultimately, Lizabeth’s journey leads her to a deeper understanding of her society, prompting her to confront the prejudices and challenges within it. This conflict emphasizes the theme of social awareness and the yearning for change, marking Lizabeth’s evolution as she seeks to find her place in a complex world.
In summary, Lizabeth's role in "Marigolds" involves navigating conflicts with others (man vs. man), her own feelings and identity (man vs. himself), and the societal conditions that shape her experiences (man vs. society). Each of these conflicts contributes to her growth and development throughout the story.