Man of The House

Question 1

Summary

Answer 1

This short story is about a little boy called Sullivan who has a sick mother. Sullivan is initially
unconcerned about his mother‟s illness, and mildly pleased, because he got to stay home and
play at being the „man of the house‟. However, his initial delight changes to concern on the
second day due to his fear that his mother has pneumonia. The second night and the third day are
even more frightening because he had to fetch the doctor and travel to the North Dispensary to
get her medication.

Question 2

Setting

Answer 2

 A town called Cork, in England.

Question 3

Main Characters

Answer 3

Sullivan
Mother
Minni Ryan
Doctor

Question 4

Characteristics of Sullivan

Answer 4

 A very responsible little boy.

 Enjoys playing at being a man by taking care of his mother and the household chores.

Question 5

Characteristics of Mother

Answer 5

 A sickly lady.
 She feels guilty that her son has to display such maturity by taking care of her.
 Displays what a loving mother she is by understanding that Dooley is an innocent boy
that succumbed to peer pressure.
 She also takes excellent care of her son when she is able to do so.

Question 6

Characteristics of Minni Ryan

Answer 6

 She is a family friend who advises Dooly during the course of his mother‟s illness.
 A middle aged woman who is very knowledgeable.
 Very pious and gossipy; according to Dooly.

Question 7

Characteristics of Doctor

Answer 7

 He was a fat, loud voiced man.

 He was the cleverest doctor in Cork.

Question 8

Themes

Answer 8

Love & family relationship

Innocence