Plot: Chapter One

Chapter One: Plot

Introduction

The first chapter, also known as The Unfurrowed Field, essentially serves as the prologue to the story. It sets the scene by introducing the main geographical, historical and social aspects of the novel.

Kinraddie Land

This chapter places emphasis on the connection between the people of Kinraddie and the land, the peopling and the depopling.
Gibbon paints a bleak picture of the harshness of Scottish agricultural life.
The author includes a satirical map, mocking the trivial disputes and parochial attitudes. This tells us a lot about the community’s mentality and social relations.

The Past

Gibbon delves into Kinraddie’s past, focusing on details such as Robert Colquohon’s activities and the impact of the Reformation.
He talks about Picts and Scots who once lived the land, creating a link between the past and present.

Life and Death

The continual theme of life and death is introduced, focusing on the natural cycles of life.
Gibbon presents the theme of change and progression through the death of old customs and the birth of new ideas.

Agricultural Revolution

This chapter portrays the arrival of the Agricultural Revolution, outlining its advantages and disadvantages. Gibbon showcases the harsh reality faced by those displaced by the progress.
The author contrasts the old farming methods with the new, mechanised ones through various examples.

Cultural Conflict

The chapter introduces the cultural conflict between the incoming English-speaking lowlanders and the traditional Scottish community.
The protagonist, Chris Guthrie, is introduced, setting up her internal struggle between her Scottish roots and her ‘English-ness’.

Remember, a thorough understanding of the first chapter is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of the novel. It provides an enriched view of Scottish life at the time and prepares you for the personal difficulties Chris Guthrie will face in the coming events.