Mrs. Peters' sympathy for Mrs. Wright in the play "Trifles" by Susan Glaspell contributes to the theme of the story by highlighting the oppressive nature of patriarchal society and the importance of empathy and solidarity among women.
Throughout the play, the male characters dismiss and belittle the women's concerns and observations, focusing solely on the evidence that will lead to a conviction in the murder case. In contrast, Mrs. Peters begins to empathize with Mrs. Wright's situation as she discovers evidence of the abuse that Mrs. Wright suffered at the hands of her husband. Mrs. Peters' sympathy for Mrs. Wright represents a break from the patriarchal norms that dominate the society depicted in the play.
Through Mrs. Peters' character, Glaspell demonstrates the importance of empathy and solidarity among women. Mrs. Peters' realization that she and Mrs. Wright share a common experience of oppression at the hands of men is a turning point in the play, as it leads her to hide evidence that could implicate Mrs. Wright in the murder of her husband. This act of solidarity among women highlights the theme of the play, which is that women must support and understand each other in order to overcome the oppressive forces of patriarchal society.
In conclusion, Mrs. Peters' sympathy for Mrs. Wright contributes to the theme of the story by highlighting the oppressive nature of patriarchal society and the importance of empathy and solidarity among women. It serves as a critique of patriarchal values and a call to action for women to support each other in the face of oppression.