Literary Criticism: South-West Room (Mary E. Wilkins Freeman)

 

Somewhere in New England stands an old and austere mansion, inhabited by Aunt Harriet for many years. After her death, the mansion is inherited by two sisters, Amanda and Sophia Gill.

Amanda, the youngest and most fragile, senses something anomalous and supernatural in the house. She is convinced that Aunt Harriet's spirit resides in the southwest chamber. In life, Aunt Harriet was a selfish and tyrannical person who reveled in the misfortunes of others, including Amanda and Sophia's past poverty.

Sophia Gill, the older sister, is a former schoolteacher. Firm in her beliefs, rational, practical, and strong-willed, she is committed to finding a logical explanation for everything she sees.

This rational worldview becomes the battleground of the story. Aunt Harriet seeks to destroy Sophia's identity by manipulating everyday objects—such as a purple dress that continuously disappears and reappears on the bed. Ultimately, when Sophia puts on her deceased aunt's bonnet, her entire reality warps as the objects around her transform into her aunt's old accessories.