The Development of William Mossop’s Character in Hobson’s Choice

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The Development of William Mossop’s Character in Hobson’s Choice

William Mossop started off as a lodger lodging with Ada Figgins. He

was shy and had no ambitions working at Hobson’s shoe shop at the

bottom of the chain. At the end of the play he was ambitious, married

and the joint owner of Hobsons shop.

The audience sympathises with Willie the first time he appears on

stage because he ‘only comes half way up the trap door’. This is

because of his social standing and he feels that he is not worthy to

speak to Hobson and the ‘upper class people’. As the play progresses

Willie acquires a greater sense of confidence. This is shown when

Willie begins to speak more and is further educated and more

self-assured. Willie also gets more confident after he gets married to

Maggie. Willie gradually works his way up the ladder and begins to

take over Hobson’s shop. During the play, Hobson is unable to watch

over the shoe shop and his daughters have all matured, moved out, and

got married, including Maggie, who is married to Willie. Willie now

has ambitions and these are to cre...

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