Bliss

Is the pear tree a symbol of Bertha herself or of Bertha and Harry’s perfect life together? Analyze both readings in your answer.

Speculate on the ending of the story. Imagine what the next day would be like at the Youngs’s house. Write a page imitating Mansfield use of dialogue. Will Bertha confront Harry? Pearl? Will she remain unchanged?

An epiphany in literature occurs when a character gains a powerful insight into themselves or the world around them. This is generally episodic, a specific moment of realization. Discuss Bertha’s epiphany. When does it occur? What does she learn?