Dishes. Freshly baked pies. Lacy aprons.
These are the images that first came to my mind when I heard the term “housekeeper.” Now, after reading Beecher's essay on guidelines for a good housekeeper, it is an occupation that is far more than that. Not only are they responsible for the cleanliness of the kitchen counters, but also for everyone who lives within the house. Their responsibility is to ensure that the home's residents are happy and maintain a well mannered attitude, as they should. They are the nucleus of the house, and Beecher believes everyone in the house fares better when her attitude is well mannered. She provides numerous examples of how to do so; such specific instructions, almost like an instructional manual.
My idea of a housekeeper has now been transformed from a part-time hobby to a full-time job, which the welfare of everyone else is dependent on. I have never thought of a housekeeper in such a way before. The idea that everyone's attitude revolves around the central worker of the house makes sense, as a matter of fact, as I look at it from personal experience. Often, I would look to my mother, our housekeeper, for emotional support. If she was in a bad mood, I would also be.
However, I believe the tone is somewhat patronizing, almost like a lecture. Beecher puts a load of additional responsibilities on housekeepers, declaring how they should and shouldn't act. If I was in the position of housekeeper, I would not appreciate Beecher's advice.
I really love your interpretation of Beecher's definition of a housekeeper! I completely agee with it. Your writing style has a lot of voice which makes it really enjoyable to read. I didn't feel like I was doing a homework asignment while reading yours. Good Job!!
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