Final answer:
The story 'a visit of charity' explores the complexities of charity through its presence and absence in character interactions, showing both empathy and societal judgment.
Step-by-step explanation:
In “a visit of charity”, the story offers various perspectives on the notion of charity that reflect both its presence and absence in the interactions between characters. When discussing appropriateness and acts of charity, the account highlights moments where charity is more about the moral obligation to give to those who lack, rather than a genuine act of kindness.
This is most evident when Dorothy shows an intense attention to detail as she interacts with those in need, indicating a sense of identification with the poor. Notably, her decision to give beyond what she and William can afford, is driven by empathy and a recognition of shared humanity.
However, the response of the parish, which rejected helping a man because they deemed him unworthy, illustrates the contradiction of charity as it is bound by societal judgments rather than need.