Question

How do the gods define "goodness" in The Good Woman of Setzuan versus how do the characters in the play besides the gods view the idea of "goodness"?

Answer 1

The book"The Good Woman of setzuan analyzes the importance of good relationships in life with tendency towards benevolence, patience and good behavior. It portrays the character of Shen Te which on one side is self-sacrificing and at the other moment is self-destructive in life.The book analyzes that extra goodness is harmful and leads to greediness, selfishness and bitterness in relationships in life. It can also lead to destruction of personality of people observation important virtues and goodness in life. Brecht has discussed the social norms, rules and regulations in life with understanding of the social issues and the way goodness can led to destruction of everything in life. This book explains the relationship with Shua Ta who is her brother and protector of her rights leading to self-destruction and conflict of relationships in life. There is a never ending relationship of constantly sharing views and sharing important bond in life of giving each other value in a materialistic sense leading to severing of ties in the society relationship with others. The story continues ahead when three gods descend and try to find one good person to reward. They come across one women who is a prostitute and sells her body to earn living. She provides shelter and food to all three of the Gods and in return accepts gifts and money from them and the she decides to open a tobacco shop. Inspite of this, society feels there is lack of morality in her and constantly humiliates and argues with this girl. One of them was Mr.Shin who was living neighbor and prohibited her from living in the locality. Then she fells in love with an unemployed pilot but police acknowledges by saying that she should get married to a wealthy man. Shua Ta starts running a tobacco empire and she gives birth to a child.Although there is goodness in relationships still the inner consciousness was destroyed by a variety of thoughts and open humiliation faced by her in society.