In Flannery O’Connor’s short story "Everything That Rises Must Converge," the character of Julian's mother serves as a poignant representation of the Old South, particularly the Antebellum South, through her attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs.
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Nostalgia and Tradition: Julian's mother embodies a deep nostalgia for the past and an adherence to traditional social norms. She frequently reflects on her family's status and the genteel lifestyle they once enjoyed. Her memories of the past reveal a longing for the social hierarchy and values that characterized the pre-Civil War South, where wealth and status dictated one's place in society.
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Racial Prejudices: The mother holds deeply entrenched racist views that are indicative of the Old South mentality. Despite the civil rights advancements taking place around her, she clings to her notions of white superiority and segregated social order. Her discomfort with African Americans and her patronizing attitude toward them reflect the ingrained racism that was prevalent in the Antebellum South, where social divisions were rigid and justified through discriminatory beliefs.
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Classism and Sense of Entitlement: Julian’s mother’s demeanor reveals a strong sense of entitlement, which aligns with the values of the Old South aristocracy. She believes that her social class elevates her above others, and she often expresses disdain for those she perceives as beneath her. This entitlement manifests in her interactions with others, showcasing a lack of awareness regarding the changing social dynamics and the implications of her outdated beliefs.
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Resistance to Change: Throughout the story, Julian’s mother exhibits a resistance to the social and cultural changes taking place in the South. Her refusal to adapt to the new realities of a racially integrated society highlights her inability to let go of the ideologies of the Old South. She is portrayed as someone who is out of touch with the present, representing an era that is rapidly disappearing yet refuses to accept its demise.
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Symbolism of the Hat: The mother’s hat is a significant symbol of her connection to the Old South. It represents her identity and the social status she clings to, serving as a visual reminder of her attempts to maintain appearances and her pride in her heritage. The hat becomes a focal point in the story, illustrating her disconnection from reality and her inability to recognize the socio-political context surrounding her.
In summary, Julian’s mother in O'Connor's "Everything That Rises Must Converge" epitomizes the Old South through her nostalgic views, racial prejudices, sense of entitlement, resistance to change, and symbolic attire. Through this character, O’Connor critiques the remnants of antebellum attitudes and the challenges of reconciling the past with the inevitable social transformations of the present.