Good Country People Identity Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)

Quote #1

"Well I wouldn't of said it was and I wouldn't of said it wasn't." (1)

Mrs. Freeman finds safety in not taking a definite stance on issues. Her noncommittal attitude keeps her safe from disagreements with Mrs. Hopewell, and from having to change her mind if she's wrong.

Quote #2

Mrs. Hopewell thought of [Hulga] as a child […]. (2)

Mrs. Hopewell's identity as mother of a child probably negatively impacts her relationship with her daughter, and it possibly holds Hulga back from living an adult life. Hulga probably does depend on her mother for care, but that care doesn't have to be given as if to a child.

Quote #3

He and Joy had the same condition! She knew that her eyes were filling with tears but she collected herself quickly and murmured, "Won't you stay for dinner?" (47)

Mrs. Hopewell sees physical problems as big factors in personal identity, so Manley's identity as a sick person sways her and gets him a free meal. What we don't know is whether Manley is really sick, or if this is part of his disguise.