Sinclair Ross’s “The Painted Door”: An In-Depth Analysis of the Moral Judgement Concerning Ann's Actions When applying the three branches of moral judgment to Sinclair Ross’ “The Painted Door,” it can be proven that Ann, the wife of John, had reasoning behind the acts she committed, later causing the death of her own husband. Throughout the story, Ann shares an extensive amount about her displeasure in her relationship with her husband and shares the struggles of being a farmer’s wife. When given the opportunity, Ann compares her husband to another man, Steven, and further realizes how unhappy she is in her current relationship, leading to an intimate act between the two while John is away at his father’s house. This act was blown out of the …show more content…
Having this knowledge could lead to an immense amount of guilt from both parties, Ann and Steven, knowing that they were the reason for John’s untimely departure from the world. Even though John acted rash and didn’t wait for an explanation from his best friend and his wife before going outside, he knew the elements would take his life. However, in the sense of opportunity, Ann can start fresh with her life. This huge event can prompt potential self reflection for the woman and lead to personal growth surrounding the relationship and what she wants from a relationship. Ann was never happy in her relationship, she longed for things that her husband could never deliver. Now the newly widowed woman is free to explore new relationships with other people that will give her everything and more of what she expected from John. Therefore, when applying the three branches of moral judgment to Sinclair Ross’ “The Painted Door,” it can be proven that Ann, the wife of John, had reasoning behind the acts she committed, later causing the death of her own