Question

2. In “The Chrysanthemums,” the character of Elisa is different at the end of the story than she is at the beginning of the story. Describe Elisa as she is characterized at the beginning of the story. Then describe the way she is characterized at the end of the story. Explain why she changes from the beginning to the end of the story. Be sure to use specific examples from the text to support your answers. (text= the short story The chrysanthemums)

Answer 1

At the beginning of the story, Elisa just has the small idea of wanting more attention, but as the story progressed, her desire for more attention grew larger. Before she talked to the man with the wagon she was just focused on her chrysanthemums but when she talked to him and got some attention she enjoyed it, so she decided to get all dolled up for Henry. But when they were on the way to dinner she was so upset because she saw the flowers on the side of the road and realized the man didn't take interest in her like she thought.

Answer 2

At the beginning of the story, we learn that Elisa is in an unhappy marriage. While her husband is not necessarily a terrible person, it is clear that he does not value or appreciate her in the ways that she requires. An example of this is when Elisa tries to give her opinion on business and he ignores her interest. This unhappiness leads Elisa to really appreciate the attention that an unknown visitor provides.

The attention she receives from this travelling salesman makes Elisa change. She fixes her appearance and feels happy and energized. This is the first change that Elisa undergoes. However, she soon finds out that the visiting man did not feel the same way about her. The realization makes her sad and upset, and this is the second change that we see in her. This leads her to cry in the car, and feel more unhappy than she felt before.