In 'The Dear Departed', we see that the author satirises mankind. Modern man is shown to be materialistic and inhuman. The plot of the story is how a selfish family members of a person suppose their father as dead and argue over division of property. They are more concerned about the material gains rather than mourning over the dead. Therefore, when they find out that Abel Merry Weather is not dead, the situation is very awkward and turns out to be humorous. Even by the end of the story the characters do not come to their senses and act greedily to own the property their father possessed. The story ends on a light note where Abel decides to re-marry and name te entire property in his wife's name.

Satirical Comment on the Nature of Human Beings in 'The Dear Departed'

The play 'The Dear Departed' by Stanley Houghton is a satirical comment on the nature of human beings. The play depicts the greed, selfishness and hypocrisy that are inherent in human beings. The characters in the play are portrayed as shallow and self-centered individuals who are more concerned about their own interests than the feelings of others.

The Theme of Greed

The play highlights the theme of greed through the character of Mrs. Slater. She is portrayed as a greedy and selfish woman who is more interested in acquiring the possessions of her dead husband than mourning his death. She is so blinded by her greed that she tries to deceive her own children by claiming that their father had left all his possessions to her.

The Theme of Hypocrisy

The play also highlights the theme of hypocrisy through the character of Mr. Jordan. He is portrayed as a hypocritical man who pretends to be a good-hearted person but is actually selfish and materialistic. He tries to take advantage of Mrs. Slater's greed by offering her a low price for the possessions of her dead husband.

The Theme of Materialism

The play also highlights the theme of materialism through the character of Mrs. Jordan. She is portrayed as a materialistic woman who is more interested in acquiring new possessions than her husband's love. She is so obsessed with material possessions that she tries to convince her husband to buy the possessions of Mrs. Slater's dead husband.

The Theme of Family Relationships

The play also depicts the theme of family relationships. The characters in the play are portrayed as dysfunctional and self-centered individuals who are more concerned about their own interests than the feelings of others. The play highlights the fact that family relationships are often based on greed and self-interest rather than love and affection.

Conclusion

Thus, 'The Dear Departed' is a satirical comment on the nature of human beings. The play highlights the greed, selfishness and hypocrisy that are inherent in human beings. The characters in the play are portrayed as shallow and self-centered individuals who are more concerned about their own interests than the feelings of others. The play also depicts the dysfunctional nature of family relationships that are often based on greed and self-interest rather than love and affection.