* Unequal Distribution of Space: The stepmother and her biological children occupy the spacious, comfortable bedrooms on the upper floors, while the stepchildren are relegated to cramped, dark rooms in the basement. This blatant disparity in living space highlights the stepmother's favoritism and lack of regard for her stepchildren's comfort and well-being.
* Deprivation and Neglect: The basement rooms are described as "damp and gloomy," with little light and poor ventilation. This suggests a deliberate attempt to make the stepchildren's lives uncomfortable and unpleasant. The stepmother seems indifferent to their needs and even actively seeks to limit their access to basic comforts.
* Symbolism of the Basement: The basement itself symbolizes a place of confinement and exclusion. It's a literal and metaphorical representation of how the stepchildren are marginalized and treated as outsiders in their own home. They are not allowed to participate in the family's life on an equal footing and are effectively confined to a hidden, forgotten space.
These details effectively paint a picture of a stepmother who is cold, uncaring, and actively seeks to isolate and mistreat her stepchildren. The disparity in living conditions is a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play and the unfair treatment faced by the protagonist, "Cinderella," in this Chinese adaptation of the classic tale.