This is a great question as it is very difficult to piece
together what is actually going on in their marriage and we have to infer a lot into
what is said and what isn't said. The part of the play to examine very closely is the
beginning of Act II, when we are introduced to Elizabeth and see them in their home
together.
Note how Elizabeth starts of the act with an
accusatory question: "What keeps you so late?" Clearly the affair that John had with
Abigail has eroded a lot of trust between them. However, it is clear that John is also
taking great pains to not raise any difficulties between them - note how, before
Elizabeth enters, he adds extra salt to the stew and then says to Elizabeth the little
white lie, "It's well seasoned." He then goes on to say to Elizabeth, "I mean to please
you, Elizabeth", however note that in her response, it is "hard" for her to say "I know
it, John."
These are just some examples that comment on the
state of their marriage. If you read the full act you will find many more, but it is
important to realise that John seems to be trying as hard as he can to make amends to
his wife. She, however, in spite of trying to be a good wife, is finding it harder to
accept John back. Note what John says:
You forget nothin' and forgive nothin'. Learn
charity, woman. I have gone tiptoe in this house all seven month since she is gone. I
have not moved from there to there without I think to please you, and still an
everlasting funeral marches round your heart. I cannot speak but I am doubted, every
moment judged for lies, as though I come into a court when I come into this
house!
Note also his somewhat
pained remark "Your justice would freeze beer." He clearly feels that Elizabeth is not
meeting him half way.
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