Question

Part 1: Tracking Themes in “The Aged Mother”

Read “The Aged Mother.” Then, select two topics and track their development through the text using the chart below. Answer in complete sentences and use examples from the story in your response.

Steps to Tracking Theme


Topic #1:

love
Topic #2:

death
Character
What are the views and attitude of the character(s) toward the topic?
How do these views and attitudes change from beginning to end?
How does the character change from beginning to end?
The view of the poor farmer on the topic is that he loves his mother
The view of the despotic leader is that he doesn't want to die and becomes selfish because he's becoming old and is getting closer too death.The view of the poor farmer is he doesn't want his mother to die.
Conflict
How does the conflict relate to this topic?
How is this conflict resolved? If not resolved, why?
What does the way the conflict is resolved tell you about the character(s) and the topic?

The conflict relates to the topic because the poor farmer loves his mother and when he finds out that the despotic leader made a new law that

Repetition
What about the topic do the characters repeatedly focus on?
Which words related to the topic are repeated throughout?
Which ideas or images related to the topic do I see more than twice?



Setting
Which elements of setting relate to the topic – historical context, mood, place, social environment, time, or weather?
How is the topic treated in the setting? Does the treatment change if/when the setting changes?



Theme


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Based on your responses, write a statement of theme for each topic.
Part 2: Characters’ Perspective in “The Aged Mother”
Authors develop and individualize their characters’ perspectives through the narrator’s words, the characters’ interactions, the setting, and the characters’ own thoughts. Using “The Aged Mother,” answer the following question.
In “The Aged Mother,” what is one way that Matsuo Basho develops and individualizes either the son’s or the mother’s perspective? Include an example from the folktale to support your response of 2-3 sentences.

Answer 1

Topic #1: Love

Character:

The poor farmer views love as a deep affection and devotion towards his mother. He expresses his love by taking care of her and not wanting her to die. The despotic leader, on the other hand, becomes selfish and lacks love towards others as he implements a law that disregards the value of elderly individuals.

Conflict:

The conflict relates to the topic of love as the poor farmer is faced with the dilemma of protecting his mother from the despotic leader's law, which threatens her life. This conflict is resolved when the poor farmer devises a plan to escape with his mother to the mountains, where they can be safe and continue to express their love for each other.

Repetition:

The characters repeatedly focus on the love between the poor farmer and his mother. The idea of love is evident throughout the story, particularly through the actions and words of the poor farmer.

Setting:

The setting, particularly the social environment and the despotic leader's rule, impacts the development of the theme of love. The oppressive and heartless regime challenges the poor farmer's love for his mother, pushing him to take drastic measures to protect her.

Theme statement for Topic #1: Love conquers all obstacles and inspires selfless actions.

Part 2: Characters' Perspective in "The Aged Mother"

Matsuo Basho individualizes the son's perspective by showcasing his deep love and dedication towards his mother. For example, when the despotic leader issues the cruel law, the son's perspective is revealed through his determination to protect his mother. He refuses to accept the unjust rule and devises a plan to save his mother, showing his strong sense of loyalty and love.