What Does Kezia Do that Makes Aunt Beryl Angry? Exploring Their Relationship Dynamics

Introduction

In literature, character dynamics often serve as a reflection of deeper themes and societal norms. In the short story “The Doll’s House” by Katherine Mansfield, we encounter a poignant relationship between Kezia and her Aunt Beryl. While Kezia embodies innocence and curiosity, Aunt Beryl represents a more harsh and judgmental perspective on life. The tension between these two characters is palpable, leading us to question what exactly Kezia does that incites Aunt Beryl’s anger. By examining their interactions, we can unravel the layers of misunderstanding and societal expectations that fuel this conflict.

Kezia’s Innocence and Curiosity

Kezia's character is marked by her innocent demeanor and genuine curiosity about the world around her. She possesses an imaginative spirit that often leads her to explore beyond the confines of what is deemed appropriate by adults. For instance, in her interactions with the dollhouse, she treats it not just as a toy but as a gateway to creativity—a place where stories unfold and friendships form. This sense of wonder is something that many children share; however, it clashes with Aunt Beryl’s rigid view of propriety.

Aunt Beryl appears to be representative of adult cynicism. She seems to have little patience for childlike imagination or any deviation from established norms. Her reaction to Kezia’s innocent actions—such as sharing the dollhouse with others or engaging in imaginative play—highlights how Kezia's behavior disrupts Aunt Beryl's orderly world. Instead of celebrating Kezia's creativity, Aunt Beryl sees it as an affront to social conventions.

The Act That Triggers Anger

One specific incident exemplifies this clash between innocence and rigidity: when Kezia invites the Kelvey sisters over to see the dollhouse. This seemingly benign act sets off Aunt Beryl's fury because it goes against her perception of class boundaries and societal decorum. The Kelveys come from a less privileged background; therefore, for Aunt Beryl, allowing them into their home symbolizes a breach in social etiquette.

Aunt Beryl views class distinctions as paramount; thus, she interprets Kezia's actions not just as naive but also insubordinate. In inviting the Kelveys—the very individuals whom she deems unworthy—Kezia inadvertently challenges Aunt Beryl’s worldview, which triggers her anger sharply. This situation reveals how adult perceptions can suffocate youthful exuberance; instead of nurturing connections based on kindness or curiosity, they are limited by harsh societal judgments.

Aunt Beryl’s Reaction: Control Through Anger

When confronted with Kezia's defiance through her innocent action of inviting others into their space, Aunt Beryl resorts to anger as a means of control. This response highlights how adults often project their fears onto children rather than guiding them through understanding or conversation. By expressing rage towards Kezia instead of explaining why such behavior is considered inappropriate in society, Aunt Beryl fails both herself and her niece.

This dynamic raises critical questions about power relationships within families and society at large: What happens when authority figures impose strict expectations on younger generations? Does this result in compliance or rebellion? In this case, it seems that rather than learning restraint from Aunt Beryl’s outburst, Kezia becomes more confused about social structures—and perhaps even emboldened in her quest for friendship across boundaries drawn by age or class.

The Broader Implications

Katherine Mansfield uses this relationship not just to explore familial dynamics but also broader societal issues surrounding classism and gender roles during her time period. Aunt Beryl embodies patriarchal values that dictate who should associate with whom based solely on socioeconomic status—a theme still relevant today.

This commentary prompts readers to reflect on our own biases regarding social classes while considering how these ideas might shape interpersonal relationships within our communities today.

Kezia represents hope for change—a willingness to break down barriers despite potential backlash from authority figures like aunt beryls everywhere.

Ultimately though Aunt beryls fears stem from insecurity inherent in maintaining existing hierarchies—it cannot be ignored that deep-seated prejudices will inevitably lead some individuals down darker paths devoiding those left behind.”

Conclusion

The tension between Kezia and Aunt Beryl highlights essential conflicts rooted deeply within societal constructs regarding class distinction and control over behavior enforced through fear tactics like anger responses utilized against young people questioning such limitations! By shining light upon these nuanced dynamics present throughout Katherine Mansfield's work—we’re reminded just how powerful storytelling can truly resonate across generations encouraging us examine our own biases while nurturing creativity among future generations!

• Mansfield,Katherine."The Doll House." London : Constable & Co., 1923
• Cuddy-Keane,Mary."Reading Katherine Mansfield." Cambridge : Cambridge University Press 2019
• Parker,Liza ."A World Divided: Class Relations In The Works Of Katherine Mansfield" New York: Bloomsbury Publishing 2017