Question

Do you think Abel Merryweather was right in not leaving his property to his daughters? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer 1

It was right because they saw him as just as a thing in their home.They didn't pour affection on him.So,It was right to give all his properties to one who CARES him well.

Answer 2

Answer :

This question is based on the play 'The Dear Departed' by Stanley Houghton.

Yes. I think Abel Merryweather was right in not leaving his property to his daughters.

The reasons for this are :

1.  Both of Abel Merryweather's daughters treated him as a liability. They took turns keeping him at their houses. The didn't really care for him. This can be seen from the fact that they assumed his death and did not even bother to get it confirmed by a doctor.

2. Both Amelia and Elizabeth were self-centred and greedy creatures who were only concerned with the division of their dead father's possessions and property. Amelia had already pinched the bureau, clock and slippers before the arrival of the Jordan family.

3. Abel Meeryweather got the love, care and affection he longed for from Mrs Shorrocks. She truly understood him and he was right in his decision to marry her and move in with her. She truly deserved the right to his property after his death.