The opening paragraphs establish the story’s protagonist as the archetypal homemaker, waiting for her husband’s return. The “warm and clean” living room is a testament to Mary Maloney’s meticulous housekeeping (22). The drawn curtains and twin glowing lamps illustrate her care in creating an inviting atmosphere. Mary’s “tranquil” posture as she sews suggests a woman contented in her role (22). Her “slow smiling air” anticipates Mr. Maloney’s return and the unborn child she is carrying (22). The adjectives used to describe Mary’s physical characteristics are feminine and Madonna-like. Her “placid” eyes, “translucent” skin, and “soft” mouth evoke Renaissance paintings of the Virgin Mary (22).

When Mary greets Mr. Maloney, her behavior confirms her to be the perfect wife and homemaker. Her demeanor is loving and caring as she selflessly attends to his every need. At this stage in the story, she is wholeheartedly invested in the role of domestic goddess. She lives only to serve and satisfy her husband, and her stereotypical subservience develops the theme of The Imbalance of Traditional Gender Roles.

Mary undergoes a dynamic character arc during the story. As she has devoted herself to her marriage, the news that her husband is leaving undermines all her life choices.