Mother's Day - NCERT Solutions Chapter 5

Mother's Day is a play written by J.B. Priestley that explores the theme of social reform. It presents a strong message about the importance of recognizing and appreciating the sacrifices made by mothers in society. The play revolves around the character of Mrs. Pearson, a working-class mother, and her struggle to provide for her family.

Summary of the Play
The play begins with Mrs. Pearson receiving a letter from her son, who is in prison. The letter reveals that he has stolen money to help his mother and siblings. Mrs. Pearson is devastated by this news and feels guilty for not being able to provide for her family. She decides to visit her son in prison and confront him about his actions.

During her visit, Mrs. Pearson meets another inmate named Jim, who shares his own story of poverty and struggle. Through their conversation, Mrs. Pearson realizes that she is not alone in her suffering and that there are many others who face similar challenges. This realization leads her to question the social and economic system that perpetuates poverty and injustice.

Key Messages of Social Reform
1. Recognition of Mother's Sacrifices: The play highlights the immense sacrifices made by mothers in society. It emphasizes the need to appreciate and acknowledge their contributions.

2. Economic Inequality and Poverty: The play sheds light on the harsh realities of poverty and the impact it has on individuals and families. It raises questions about the unequal distribution of wealth and the need for social reform to address these issues.

3. Importance of Empathy and Understanding: Through the character of Mrs. Pearson, the play emphasizes the significance of empathy and understanding towards the struggles faced by others. It encourages individuals to look beyond their own circumstances and recognize the systemic barriers that contribute to inequality.

4. Need for Social Change: Mother's Day serves as a call to action for social reform. It urges individuals to question and challenge the existing social structures that perpetuate poverty and inequality.

Conclusion
Mother's Day is a thought-provoking play that carries a strong message of social reform. It highlights the struggles faced by working-class mothers and raises important questions about economic inequality and the need for change. The play encourages empathy, understanding, and action to address the systemic barriers that hinder social progress.