Family Quotes in Major Pettigrew's Last Stand

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

"Is it worth the struggle, one must ask, if the result is the loss of family and the breaking of tradition?" (1.102)

Mrs. Ali is very conflicted because she has to choose between family and what she believes in. On the other hand, she doesn't share her family's beliefs of putting tradition first, especially when tradition comes at the expense of her independence.

Quote #2

"You are lucky," said Mrs. Ali. "You Anglo-Saxons have largely broken away from such dependence on family. Each generation feels perfectly free to act alone and you are not afraid." (1.104)

Mrs. Ali sees this as a benefit, but this is what bothers the Major most. He wants a relationship with his son. He doesn't like that Roger feels free to act alone.

Quote #3

"You must enjoy your family and I must be getting back." (2.40)

By this point, the Major thinks a relationship with his son is beyond hope. The rest of his family is dead, so the Major would pretty much just rather spend time with Mrs. Ali, his new family.