Why does Shaw write in the stage directions that Emmy is dusting Dr. Ridgeon's consultation room? (MEG 103) (UNIT END QUESTIONS)

Shaw includes the stage direction that Emmy is dusting Dr. Ridgeon's consultation room to establish Emmy's character and the setting of the scene.

Emmy is a young woman who works as Dr. Ridgeon's housekeeper, and her actions of dusting the room indicate that she takes pride in her work and is diligent in keeping the environment clean and tidy. It also implies that Ridgeon is a busy doctor who requires a clean and organized workspace to provide the best medical care for his patients.

Furthermore, the stage direction helps to establish the social class difference between Emmy and Ridgeon. Emmy is a working-class woman who performs menial tasks such as dusting, while Ridgeon is a successful doctor who is respected in his field. This contrast in social status highlights the societal hierarchy and the different roles that individuals play within it.

Overall, the stage direction of Emmy dusting Dr. Ridgeon's consultation room serves to establish the character of Emmy, the setting of the scene, and the social context of the play.