August Osage County Character Analysis

In the book, August: Osage County, there are two characters whose contrasting personality traits encompass the definition of polarity. The first is Violet, she is the mother of three daughters, Barbara, Ivy, and Karen. She is depicted as the matriarch of the family and although not her idea, Johnna’s employer. The other is Johnna. She is an outsider, a Native American woman hired by Violet’s husband to perform household duties and drive Violet to her scheduled appointments.
In observing the interactions Violet and Johnna have with various members of the Weston family it becomes clear that Johnna understands the significance of being a supportive and nurturing person. Violet, on the other hand, neglects to acknowledge anyone’s emotions barring her own, and proceeds to belittle and degrade everyone she encounters. Her lack of support leaves her family members feeling dejected and alone. As the mother figure in this play she proves to be the least maternal character and Johnna, although
Instead of feeling remorse regarding Beverly’s’ disappearance, she chastises him stating, “Goddamn your father for putting me through this” (Letts, 2008, p. 22). She finds many instances to belittle people as evidenced by statements such as: 1) “I know that, dummy” (Letts, 2008, p. 24) when talking to Ivy, 2) Referring to Johnna as, “the Indian girl” (Letts, 2008, p. 29) despite being told by Barbara they are referred to as Native Americans, and 3) when speaking with Mattie Fae stated, “You’re about as sexy as a wet cardboard box” (Letts, 2008, p. 51). In addition, she makes no apologies for her actions by stating, “My momma was a nasty, mean old lady. I suppose that’s where I get it from” (Letts, 2008, p. 80). Lastly, when Barbara tries to support her, after taking away her pills, she rebukes her stating, “I don’t need your help. So don’t you worry about me” (Letts, 2008, p.