Hinterland- Social/cultural context
Hinterland- Social/cultural context
“Hinterland”: Social/Cultural Context
- Hinterland, also known as Y Gwyll in Welsh, is a police procedural drama that starkly contrasts the usual urban setting of similar shows by taking place in the rural landscapes of Wales.
- Anchored by its lead, DCI Tom Mathias, Hinterland consciously integrates the Welsh language and culture into its narrative, offering a unique bicultural identity. This is critical in considering the show’s cultural impact.
Representation in “Hinterland”
- A central aspect of Hinterland’s representation is in it consciously highlighting Welsh culture. The show is available in both Welsh and English languages, thereby immediately situating itself within a culturally specific context.
- The depiction of Wales as rural and slightly mysterious speaks to the less frequently explored areas of the UK within mainstream media. It also reinforced stereotypes of Wales, especially the rural and rugged mystique, and the perception of it as a ‘Celtic fringe’ region.
- The characters’ behaviour, values and attitudes are informed by their rural surroundings, and in turn, these traits influence their perspective towards criminality. This relationship between humans and their environment is a crucial theme in the show.
Social Context of “Hinterland”
- The period when Hinterland was produced (2013 - onwards) was marked by increasing debates about regional and national identity in the UK. This climate is relevant in contextualising the show’s exploration of a distinctive Welsh identity.
- ‘Hinterland’ also explores themes of localism and globalisation. While it focused on the specific, localised culture of Wales, it also appealed to a broad, global audience. The increasing popularity of Nordic Noir had demonstrated that audiences were welcoming of crime dramas from less obvious regions. ‘Hinterland’ capitalised on this trend using a similar mood and aesthetic, while also injecting uniqueness via its Welsh roots.
- The series also reflects the digital age’s influence on programming. Hinterland was originally broadcast digitally on S4C’s online platform before gaining mainstream success. This reflects an evolving media landscape, where creators increasingly access wider audiences through digital platforms.
Gender and Class Themes in “Hinterland”
- The series presents both male and female characters in roles of authority, slightly diluting the traditional gender bias commonly found in crime dramas. This was in line with the greater social push for gender equality.
- In terms of class, the series often contrasts the privileged and the underprivileged. The investigators frequently deal with crimes linked to the less affluent sections of society, drawing attention to systemic problems connected to economic disparity and rural isolation.
Through an analysis of ‘Hinterland’, we can understand how television series can thoughtfully reflect and engage with the social and cultural contexts they are created within.