English & Literature

Who is Gwilym and Beth Morgan from How Green Was My Valley and what is their importance? How_Green_Was_My_Valley English & Literature Gwilym and Beth Morgan | How Green Was My Valley

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Gwilym Morgan is a stern and sometimes gruff Christian man, who loves his family and God above all else. His rough exterior masks his tender nature, but he is principled and bound by old traditions and by his faith. He does not want confrontation with the mine-owners, but wants the men to pray and seek answers without demanding them. He believes so strongly in right and wrong, that when he finds a shop keeper has stolen his three turkeys, he demands the shop close and threatens to burn it. Gwilym has worked at the colliery for many years and provided nicely for his family prior to the strikes and labor troubles. His demand for respect from his sons forces him to treat them as boarders when they dare to disagree with him. However, he takes little Huw to the mountain frequently and speaks his heart to him.

Beth Morgan, although she knows her place as a woman, is a forthright, capable, strong and deeply caring person whose devotion to her family is her primary focus. She loves her children unconditionally, and is a devoted mate and partner to her husband Gwilym. Beth is brave enough to address a group of hostile men, threatening them not to harm her husband. Her household work is hard and tedious, but she provides a fine home for her family, insisting on cleanliness and order.