In "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the primary problem that drives the story is the loss of innocence and the transition from childhood to adulthood. The protagonist, Lizabeth, grapples with her feelings of confusion, vulnerability, and the desire to understand the world around her. The main conflict for Ms. Lottie, the elderly neighbor who takes care of her marigolds, revolves around her struggle to maintain her dignity and sense of purpose despite the hardships and challenges she faces in her life as a poor, marginalized person.
Main Conflict for Ms. Lottie:
Ms. Lottie's primary conflict can be labeled as Man vs. Society. She is a representation of resilience and beauty in a world that often overlooks and marginalizes her. The marigolds symbolize hope and beauty, contrasting against the harsh conditions of her poverty-stricken environment. Her struggles are not just personal; they reflect societal neglect and the challenges faced by individuals in lower socioeconomic standings. Additionally, she faces the external conflict of dealing with the children in the neighborhood, particularly when Lizabeth destroys her marigolds out of frustration and youthful impulsiveness.
Other Concerns Ms. Lottie May Have:
On that particular day, Ms. Lottie may also be dealing with:
- Isolation: As an older woman living in a poor area, she may experience feelings of loneliness and neglect from the community.
- Economic Hardship: The constant burden of financial struggle and the effects it has on her quality of life.
- Emotional Resilience: Despite her outer strength, she might be feeling weary from the emotional toll of maintaining her garden in such a difficult environment.
- Dreams and Aspirations: The marigolds represent her dreams and hopes for beauty in her life, which might feel fragile and fleeting.
Conflict Analysis:
The conflict in "Marigolds" predominantly spans Man vs. Society and Man vs. Self.
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Man vs. Society:
- Ms. Lottie’s character embodies the struggles of many marginalized individuals. Society’s apathy towards her situation is highlighted through the children's actions and their lack of understanding. The destruction of her marigolds serves to amplify the societal neglect and the oppression she faces.
- Lizabeth’s decision to destroy the marigolds signifies a profound moment of rebellion against the constraints and expectations of her environment—an act born from the confusion and anger of approaching adulthood. This act inadvertently signifies her own struggle against societal expectations.
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Man vs. Self:
- For Lizabeth, the inner conflict is deeply tied to her emotions and the transition from childhood's innocence to the complexities of adulthood. Her actions reflect a tumultuous inner world where she battles her feelings of frustration, confusion, and ultimately, guilt. The destruction of the marigolds leads her to a pivotal moment of self-realization and maturity where she understands empathy and the importance of hope.
- As Lizabeth confronts her betrayal of Ms. Lottie’s hope, she embarks on a journey towards understanding her own identity and place within her community, grappling with the emotions that come with that loss of innocence.
In conclusion, "Marigolds" uses these conflicts to explore deeper themes of growth, empathy, and the impact of societal expectations on individuals. Ms. Lottie's struggle with society highlights the broader issues faced by marginalized communities, while Lizabeth's journey reflects the universal coming-of-age experience.
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