Mrs. Warren's Profession, Act 4 summary
Act 4 of 6 · 26 min to read the act
In Act 4, Vivie establishes herself in business, rejects romance with Frank, and tells him and Praed the truth about her mother's business. When Mrs Warren arrives, Vivie refuses her money and demands a complete separation because her mother continues the business; after their painful confrontation, Vivie returns to work with relief.
What happens
- Vivie explains her partnership with Honoria and rejects Frank's invitation, gambling money, and renewed romantic advances.
- Praed proposes travel, but Vivie rejects his romantic outlook and reveals her mother's business through writing.
- Frank privately abandons marriage because he refuses Mrs Warren's money and cannot support Vivie himself.
- Mrs Warren arrives, and Vivie dismisses the men before explaining that she returns her allowance and chooses independence.
- Mrs Warren defends her continuing business and appeals to maternal rights, but Vivie insists that they separate.
- Mrs Warren leaves without shaking hands; Vivie tears up Frank's note and happily resumes her calculations.
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In this act
What to notice
Vivie acknowledges their shared need for work and money without accepting her mother's choices. Their resemblance does not persuade her to preserve their relationship.
Quick check
Why does Vivie reject her mother's explanation of the business?
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