How does Ruth and Walter's relationship change as the play progresses? Why?

Ruth and Walters relationship is strained. Walter projects all his self-loathing onto Ruth. She must carry the emotional and economic burden of Walter's many emotional issues. There is a little hope at the end of the play when Walter rejects Linder's offer: he cannot look weak in front of his son. Walter is able to come into his own and hopefully improve his relationship with Ruth.