Final answer:
Analyzing Mrs. Sommers within her historical context allows us to understand the societal implications and motivations behind her character, reflecting broader themes of social class and historical norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand why Mrs. Sommers is an important figure for analysis, we must "''actively engage with the historical context of the story. In assessing the circumstances that lead to the actions and motivations of Mrs. Sommers, the immediate social settings as well as long-term historical trends must be considered to grasp a comprehensive understanding of her character.
To fully analyze her, it's useful to examine the aspirations and conditions of the social class she might represent in the narrative. For instance, does she embody the struggles and desires of the lower classes, or is there a notable tension created by her potential interactions with the upper classes? Reviewing the surrounding historical period can also unveil the kind of societal pressures or norms that might have influenced her behavior and decisions, shedding light on themes like class struggle, societal expectations, or gender roles.
Assessing this context is essential because it allows readers to see past the surface-level actions to the larger societal implications and the why behind the characters' motivations. Furthermore, considering New Historicism Criticism, analyzing the historical background offers insights into who benefits from the outcomes or why characters act as they do within their specific societal and historical frameworks. Ultimately, establishing the significance of Mrs. Sommers' story is important for recognizing the impact of societal norms and historical circumstances on individual actions.