In Act II of Thornton Wilder's play, "Our Town," various attitudes toward marriage are depicted. Dr. and Mrs. Gibbs, Mr. and Mrs. Webb, George, Emily, Mrs. Soames, the baseball players, and the Stage Manager all demonstrate unique viewpoints about the institution of marriage.
Dr. and Mrs. Gibbs are presented as a traditional married couple who are content with their lives. They exchange pleasantries and reminisce about their courtship. Mrs. Gibbs states that "I wouldn't have anybody else's children but my own," which shows her pride in her family and marriage. This portrayal of marriage as a stable, loving relationship between two people who have children and are committed to each other is still viewed as an ideal by many today.
On the other hand, Mr. and Mrs. Webb represent a more pragmatic approach to marriage. They discuss the practical aspects of marriage, such as sharing chores and taking care of children. Mrs. Webb even remarks that "Marriage is a wonderful thing, but it's an ordeal, too." This suggests that while marriage may have its challenges, it is ultimately worth it. This view of marriage is also still common today, with many couples acknowledging that marriage takes work but is rewarding.
Finally, George and Emily are presented as young lovers who are excited about their future together. They discuss their plans to get married and how they will make their lives together. This portrayal of marriage as a romantic partnership between two individuals who are deeply in love is also still viewed as an ideal by many people today.
Overall, "Our Town" presents a nuanced portrayal of marriage through its various characters. While each character's perspective is unique, they all believe that marriage is a significant institution that should be taken seriously. Even though the play was written nearly a century ago, the attitudes toward marriage depicted in the play still ring true today.
In conclusion, "Our Town" effectively shows the varying attitudes toward marriage through its different characters. The traditional view of marriage as a loving, committed relationship, the pragmatic view of marriage as a partnership between two people who work together to make it work, and the romantic view of marriage as a deeply loving partnership all hold today. While marriage may be different for each individual, it is clear that it remains an essential part of human life.