Theme: Change

Theme: Change

Overview

The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil presents change as a central theme, with its examination of the Highland society’s transformation over time.
The alterations experienced by the community extend from the social to the economic, political, and even to their physical environment.

The play reveals the transition from an agricultural society to an industrialised one, bringing both benefits and challenges.
It sheds light on the shift from cottage industries to larger, mechanised industries, causing drastic changes to livelihoods and lifestyles.
The industrial revolution marks a key turning point, causing loss of jobs, creating class disparity, and escalating exploitation.

Political Change

The changes in ownership of land from clans to wealthy landlords and later corporation depict the shift of power and control.
Significantly, the Clearances represent a monumental political change, leading to displacement, loss of identity, and cultural erosion.
It also explores the dynamic transition of the Highlands from self-governance to being under dominating entities, reflecting political control and manipulation.

Environmental Change

The transition from barren land to the discovery of oil in the North Sea underscores noticeable environmental changes.
This discovery and the subsequent oil boom brought about industrialisation, pollution, and destruction of the natural landscape.

Effects of Change on the Community

The changes have multifaceted impacts on the Highland community, ranging from economic hardship to loss of cultural identity.
The forced mass migration during the Highland Clearances is a defining catalyst, leading to loss of homes, community disruption, and a sense of alienation.
Additionally, changes lead to the erosion of traditional Highland culture, as new industries and external influences dilute cultural practices and languages.

Change as a Driver of Conflict

Change also generates conflict and tension within the community, particularly between the locals and external forces (landlords, corporations).
The community’s resistance against displacement, exploitation, and cultural alienation demonstrates conflict between the old and the new, tradition and progress.

Change as Inevitable

Despite the magnitude of change and subsequent challenges, the play portrays change as inevitable in the natural and societal progression.
The resilience of the Highland community in adjusting to these shifts underscores the strength of human adaptability in the face of change.

Role of Change in the Narrative

Change serves as a compelling narrative device, driving the plot, shaping character development, and creating dramatic tension.
It also provides a unique lens for analysing the social, political, and economic realities of the Highland society.