SWA #4

SWA #4

            In the piece “On the Preservation of a Good Temper in a Housekeeper” the author discusses the role of a housekeeper. My vision of this person was that of a mother or mother-like figure. Someone who takes care of the family in ways that most of them are unaware of. This “housekeeper” is almost like a guardian figure that protects the ones closest to her and is responsible for keeping the family together. The reason that Beecher says they must be “equable and [have a] cheerful temper” is because they are essentially the center of the family. How ever they act is mirrored by the people that they care for. If they were to be hot tempered and disconnected, then the rest of the family would reflect those qualities. In essence the “housekeeper” is the glue that binds the family together.

            The first method that Beecher discusses is one in which the housekeeper must regaurd the duties which have been bestowed upon her with importance. If she decides that the duties are meaningless then she will not fulfill them with the same motivation and carefulness that is needed. She must also posses the abilities to overcome temptations and to see how the fulfillment of her current duties will effect the generations following her. The third method is to prepare for any obstructions that may enter her path of duty. This will prevent her from falling to any temptation and allow her to meet such obstacles with cheerfulness. A woman must also arrange her plans so that they are in accordance with those in command as well as those around her. This will again prevent her from falling into temptation or disappointment. The fifth method is one in which neatness, order and systematic actions are passed down to those she cares for. It is the passing down of traits such as patience and a cool temper. She must do so through words as well as action. The final method is controlling the tone of her voice. Although at times it is hard to not be irritated, she must deal with such irritations in a calm and rational manor.

            Women of a higher class need to practice thee qualities when they are in command. If a situation goes astray then she must deal with it in a calm manor and present to those responsible the consequences of their actions. When dealing with children, she must allow and plan for mistakes and deal with them in such a way that the children might learn from their mistakes. This will prepare the children to fulfill duties later in life in a manor that is similar to that of their mother. The final duty of the housekeeper is to instill the values and secure that her children speak with easy tongues and placid tones. That their actions reflect their morals and that they realize events in life are a result of the plan of God. This will bring both the woman and generations to come peace and contentment.