Final answer:
Amanda's overbearing and occasionally cruel nature is portrayed A) through her strict discipline and criticism, which stems from a deep love and concern for her children's future, mirroring the complex nature of maternal feelings as seen in other literary examples like Mrs. Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice'.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scene one of the play showcases that Amanda is overbearing and sometimes cruel, yet she clearly loves her children A) through her strict discipline and criticism.
This behavior can be seen when parents, out of concern for their child's future, enforce discipline in a severe manner, hoping it will guide them onto a better path.
However, through their strictness, they might inadvertently cross the line to being perceived as cruel. At the same time, Amanda's behavior shows that the discipline stems from a place of love and desire for her children to succeed, similar to Mrs.
Bennet's actions in 'Pride and Prejudice', who, despite her silliness and occasional cruelty, is ultimately driven by a mother's aspiration for the security and happiness of her children.