How Does Mary Define ‘Home’ in the “Death of the Hired Man”?

Answer

How does Mary define ‘Home’ in the “Death of the Hired Man”?

Describe the Symbolic  meaning of home  in the “Death of the Hired Man”

In “The Death of the Hired Man” by Robert Frost (1874-1963), Mary offers a heartfelt and profound definition of  ‘home’.   She defines ‘home’ as a place where one is accepted despite their faults. She thinks home is an emotional and relational area or a place that feels like home. Through her words, we understand that home is not just a location but a shelter of love, acceptance, and belonging.

Home as a Place of Unconditional Acceptance: Mary believes that home is where you are accepted without any conditions. She explains that home is a place where people take you in no matter what. This means that home is where you are always welcome, even if you’ve made mistakes or have nowhere else to go. This is evident when she says, 

Home is the place where, when you have to go there, 

They have to take you in.

Home as a Place of Care and Compassion: Mary defines home as a place filled with care and compassion. She demonstrates this by showing concern for Silas, the hired man. He has returned in poor health. Her compassion reflects the essence of home as a place where people look after each other, especially in times of need. Mary insists that they should care for him, saying, 

I can’t think Si ever hurt anyone.

Home as a Place of Emotional Connection: Mary sees home as a place where people share a deep emotional connection. She understands that Silas, despite his flaws, sees their house as his home. Mary’s recognition of Silas’s emotional connection to their home highlights the importance of shared feelings and bonds in defining what home truly is. She expresses this by saying, 

He has come home to die.

Home as a Place of Final Rest: Lastly, Mary views home as the ultimate place of rest and peace. She recognizes that Silas has come back not just for shelter but to find his final peace. For Mary, home is where one can find rest, even at the end of life’s journey. 

Through Mary’s perspective in “The Death of the Hired Man,” Robert Frost beautifully illustrates that home is much more than a physical space. It is a place of unconditional acceptance, compassion, emotional connection, and final rest.