We all know this type from several soap-like movies. He seems determined and strong-willed, but is completely paralyzed when problems gets overhead.
When he is told that Miranda is pregnant he makes a half-hearted attempt to sort thinks out by arranging a wedding. He is also aware of his responsibility, but unsure if he can live up to it. Therefore he does not argue with Miranda's parents when they bring up abortion as a possible solution (Line 183-185: She watched Michael. He was listening to them, and in his eyes she saw relief and gratitude).
Miranda's parents seem traditionally and loving, but they are probably afraid of the shame that can be put upon. Therefore they are very focused about keeping up the appearances.
For them it is important to have success in the job. You could say they are very influenced by conservative thoughts as, according to them, career goes beyond family. Family is the pay off whenever you have succeeded in your job and education.
Once you have reached your goals and opened doors to the future you can settle down and care about family. Also we learn that the marriage has been a hard job (Line 156-159: After all these years with this guy – and believe me some of them have been like standing in the rain – now that I'm getting old at least I know I didn't give anything up to get married), a hard job that also has had its downs (Line 160: I'd had
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