Question

what is the central idea of the drama the dear departed

Answer 1

The title 'The Dear Departed' literally means that person who is died is much loved by the family members and hence the person is being called 'the dear departed', but actually in the drama, we see the underlying irony of this title. Abel lies down because he feels dazed and Amelia Slater thinks that he has died. Amelia does not even bother to call a doctor to confirm this. The only matter on her mind is pinching his possessions before Elizabeth arrives and outshining her by wearing mourning clothes. When Elizabeth does arrive, instead of going to see her father, she prefers to have tea. The two sisters quarrel over his possessions. Finally, Abel realises that he is not at all 'dear' to them and since he is not a departed soul he decides to 'depart' from their lives.....