Fashion by Anna Mowatt - 1089 Words

In the 19th century play, FASHION, Anna Mowatt develops the character plot as a contrast and comparison between being â€Å"natural† and â€Å"artificial in a world becoming preoccupied with fashion, and being fashionable. In the head notes, it was stated that Daniel Havens said FASHION is â€Å"the ugly image of the American Dream gone sour.† (Watt and Richardson) Fashion has a complex definition. The word ‘fashion’ can mean anything from the type of clothes you wear, how you communicate with others, the place you live, how you present yourself, or who you associate yourself with. In FASHION, Mowatt took a comical yet sober look at the definitions of â€Å"fashion,† applied it to real life in 1845, and through her characters, provides a mirror with which an†¦show more content†¦In a present day version of FASHION, Zeke could easily be portrayed as a friend who often visits the Tiffany’s. Alternatively, he could also be an employee of theirs as a handyman, or plumber, etc. This would provide a current day perspective of the poorer economic class of Zeke’s character. Moral Character – Living in the country or the city?: There are certainly differences of opinion whether it is better to live in the City or in the Country. In FASHION, it was very evident that Mowatt’s character, ‘Trueman’ was an advocate proclaiming that living in the country keeps the morals and values of America pure and untainted. Near the end of the play, Trueman tells Mr. Tiffany, â€Å"You must sell your house and all these gew gaws, and bundle your wife and daughter off to the country. There let them learn economy, true independence, and home virtues, instead of foreign follies.† In the case of Mrs. Tiffany and Seraphina, this antidote was truly what they needed. This does not make it true for everyone. I am sure many feel this way about city life vs. country life today. However, there are pros and cons to both; neither life guarantees economy, independence virtue, honor, or a happier existence. Therefore, I do not believe there is a clear cut solution to whether one life is more coveted than the other. Some believe that living in the country is better because you are not exposed to the â€Å"fast† life that city dwelling has to offer. Many believe country life has lessShow MoreRelatedEssay about How Anna Cora Mowatt Fashioned Her Fashion714 Words   |  3 Pages Ms. Anna Cora Mowatt is an inspiring theatrical and historical figure. She fell in love with the theatre at a young age and exhibited a talent for acting. Moreover, Mowatt’s fame flourished due to her play and literature publications, not just from than from her acting abilities. Anna Cora Ogden was born on March 5, 1819 in Bordeaux, France to American parents. She and her family moved to New York City when she was seven years old. Anna married James Mowatt, a lawyer who was several years her senior