By smartcubs Kezia’s father is a central character in Katherine Mansfield’s short story “The Little Girl.” He represents the archetypal strict, distant parent, whose stern demeanor and disciplinary actions create a sense of fear and misunderstanding in his young daughter, Kezia. Through his character, the story explores themes of parental authority, discipline, and the eventual realization of paternal love.
Physical Appearance
Kezia’s father is depicted as a typical authoritative figure:
- Age: Middle-aged, suggesting experience and authority.
- Build: Tall and imposing, which contributes to his intimidating presence.
- Clothing: Often dressed in formal work attire, reflecting his serious nature and professional life.
- Features: His face is stern, with sharp, authoritative features that can appear harsh and unapproachable to a child.
Personality Traits
Kezia’s father’s personality is multifaceted, combining sternness with underlying care:
- Authoritative: He is strict and expects obedience, often enforcing discipline in a firm manner.
- Distant: His busy work life and serious demeanor create a sense of distance between him and his daughter.
- Misunderstood: While he appears harsh, his actions are driven by a sense of responsibility and care for his family.
- Protective: Beneath his stern exterior, he is protective of his daughter and deeply cares for her well-being.
- Complex: He is a complex character, whose actions are often misinterpreted by Kezia due to her limited understanding as a child.
Relationships
The relationship between Kezia and her father is central to the story’s emotional depth:
- Kezia: His relationship with Kezia is marked by fear and misunderstanding on her part. She perceives him as a figure of authority rather than affection, which causes her anxiety and apprehension.
- Mother: Kezia’s father shares a traditional relationship with her mother, who often mediates between him and Kezia.
- Family Dynamic: The family dynamic is influenced by his authoritative presence, creating an atmosphere where his word is final, and his actions are guided by a sense of duty.
Values and Beliefs
Kezia’s father’s values and beliefs are reflected in his behavior and interactions:
- Discipline: He believes in strict discipline as a means to raise well-behaved and responsible children.
- Responsibility: His actions are driven by a strong sense of responsibility towards his family’s well-being.
- Protection: He values the safety and security of his family, often taking on the role of the protector.
- Miscommunication: His inability to express affection openly leads to miscommunication and a lack of emotional connection with Kezia.
Summary of Key Traits
- Authoritative and strict
- Distant yet protective
- Misunderstood and complex
- Driven by responsibility and discipline
Kezia’s father is a character who embodies the complexities of parental authority and the challenges of expressing love through a stern exterior. His relationship with Kezia highlights the emotional gap that can exist between parents and children when discipline overshadows affection. Ultimately, the story reveals the depth of his care and the importance of understanding and empathy in familial relationships.