1. Financial Support: The envelope likely contains money, suggesting that Mama is providing financial assistance to Walter. This may indicate that Walter is facing financial difficulties or has financial aspirations, such as starting a business venture or making a significant purchase.
2. Trust and Confidence: By entrusting Walter with the money, Mama demonstrates her trust and confidence in him. She believes he will use the money responsibly and make sound decisions. This portrayal highlights the strong family bond and Mama's nurturing role within the household.
3. Symbolism of Legacy: The envelope might symbolize the transfer of responsibility and legacy from one generation to another. As Mama hands over the money, she may be passing on the weight of financial and familial responsibilities to Walter.
4. Potential Conflict: The act of giving the envelope could set up potential conflict or tension within the play. Other family members may have differing opinions or expectations about Walter's use of the money, leading to disagreements or misunderstandings.
5. Sense of Hope: The envelope could also represent hope and new opportunities for Walter and the family. It hints at the possibility of positive change and better prospects on the horizon.
Overall, the exchange of the envelope in Scene 5 provides insight into Mama's character, Walter's financial situation, and the dynamics within the family. It sets the stage for future events and themes to be explored in subsequent scenes of the play.