Final answer:
Freddy Malins and Miss Ivors are characters who illuminate deeper societal themes within their narratives, highlighting social excess and political tensions in early 20th century Ireland through their contrasting actions and perspectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Freddy Malins and Miss Ivors are indeed interesting characters whose roles and behaviors reveal deeper themes and societal concerns in their respective stories. Freddy Malins, who appears in James Joyce's 'The Dead,' is significant because his jovial and sometimes imprudent demeanor sites in stark contrast to the more solemn and reflective atmosphere of the party, bringing issues of excess and the superficiality of social interactions to light. Miss Ivors, also from 'The Dead,' presents as a nationalistic and politically charged figure, challenging other characters on their commitments to their Irish heritage, thus spotlighting the tensions between traditional Irish identity and the anglicized culture of the Irish upper class. Both characters, through their actions and interactions with others, help explore and expose the complex social and political undercurrents of early 20th century Ireland.