Student Question
What does Shiloh symbolize to Mabel in the short story Shiloh?
Quick answer:
In Bobbie Ann Mason's "Shiloh," the location symbolizes a romantic getaway for Mabel Beasley, Leroy's mother-in-law. She suggests a trip there for her daughter and son-in-law, hoping it will help mend their troubled marriage. To Mabel, Shiloh represents a chance to escape their problems and focus on each other, as it was a significant place in her own life, having visited it on her honeymoon.
In the short story "Shiloh" by Bobbie Ann Mason, Mabel Beasley is Leroy's
pragmatic and often critical mother-in-law. Even though it seems as if
Mabel does not approve of Leroy, she still wants to help her daughter save her
troubled marriage. She encourages the young couple to take a trip to
Shiloh, a famous Civil War battlefield, because she went there on her
honeymoon.
For Mabel Beasley, Shiloh represents a romantic getaway, a chance for them to
leave their problems behind, if only temporarily, so they can focus on each
other and their marriage. Mabel hopes that Shiloh will be an opportunity
for her daughter and son-in-law to improve their marriage.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.