Tradition by George Middleton OLLIVANT. [Kindly.] Ben and I only want to protect you, Mary. MARY. Why do men always want to protect women? OLLIVANT. Because we know the world. MARY. Yes; but you don't know me. Father, you still think I'm only a foolish, stage-struck girl, and want flowers and men and my name in big letters. It isn't that. OLLIVANT. Well, what is it, then? MARY. Oh—I want to be an artist. I don't suppose you can understand it; I didn't, myself, at first. I was born with it, but didn't know what it was till that first time you took me to the theatre. I wanted to act—to create. I don't care whether I play a leading lady or a scrub-woman, if I can do it with truth and beauty. "Tradition" by George Middleton Question Use the excerpt below to answer the question. How does Mary’s monologue enhance the play? (1 point) Responses It outlines the differences between men and women. It outlines the differences between men and women. It explains how Mary feels about acting. It explains how Mary feels about acting. It shows why Ollivant does not understand Mary. It shows why Ollivant does not understand Mary. It reveals how Ben and Mary are different.

Answer 1

Mary's monologue enhances the play by explaining how Mary feels about acting. Through her passionate declaration, she articulates her desire to be an artist and the deep connection she feels to theater, which reveals her motivations and aspirations, contrasting her dreams with the traditional expectations placed on her by men.