An analysis of Rosemary Fell, the protagonist in Katherine Mansfield's short story "A Cup of Tea", and the themes she represnts.

Never Satisfied The main theme of Katherine Mansfield's "A Cup of Tea" is the selfishness often displayed by rich, arrogant women of the British aristocracy. Set in turn-of-the-century England, rigid social classes separate the rich and the poor. As a member of the upper class, the story's protagonist Rosemary Fell lives a luxurious life. Her encounter with Miss Smith, a young beggar, exemplifies the rich woman's need to constantly be pleased. Rosemary's exclusive shopping habits, …

…she needs them, but because she craves materialistic superiority over others. These characteristics portray to the reader the superficiality of both Rosemary and the rich as a whole. This egocentric way of life led by many of the rich in England actually leaves them feeling unfulfilled, ironically putting them on an equal or lower level spiritually than the poor. Although many believe money will solve their unhappiness, Rosemary Fell substantiates the inaccuracy in that belief.