Cyril Pearson is a character in J.B. Priestley’s play “Mother’s Day.” He is the son of Mrs. Annie Pearson and George Pearson, and the brother of Doris Pearson. Cyril is a young man who lives with his family in a London suburb and here on this page we are going to describe the Character Sketch of Cyril Pearson.
Personality Traits
- Spoiled and Self-Centered: Cyril, like his sister Doris, is accustomed to having his mother cater to his needs. He expects her to serve him without considering her feelings or workload.
- Casual Attitude: He treats his mother casually, not showing her the respect she deserves. This behavior indicates a lack of appreciation for her efforts.
Behavioral Characteristics
- Demanding: Cyril often makes demands of his mother, expecting her to fulfill his requests promptly. For example, he asks if tea is ready and reacts angrily when it is not, saying, “Why not?”
- Insensitive: He does not consider his mother’s feelings or the amount of work she does for the family. Cyril takes her efforts for granted, not recognizing the strain he places on her.
Role in the Play
Cyril’s character represents the typical behavior of children who take their mothers for granted. His interactions with Mrs. Pearson highlight the lack of respect and appreciation that she receives from her family. This dynamic sets the stage for the central conflict in the play, where Mrs. Pearson, with the help of Mrs. Fitzgerald, seeks to change her family’s behavior and earn the respect she deserves.
Through Cyril’s character, the play emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of mothers within the family. It serves as a critique of the casual and dismissive attitudes that family members may develop, urging a more appreciative and respectful approach to familial relationships.
