The Eye of the Hurricane: Historical Context

Overview:

“The Eye of the Hurricane: Historical Context” delves into the intricate relationship between history and everyday life in rural Orkney, as experienced by George Mackay Brown’s characters.

Themes:

Everyday life intertwined with history:

The narrative reveals how the rich history of Orkney influences and shapes the day-to-day life of its inhabitants.
The characters’ perceptions and actions are deeply rooted in their historical and cultural past.

The Past Shapes the Present:

The narrative dwells on the significance of historical events and traditions in forming the present-day Orcadian culture.
The idea that past events continue to exist in, and influence the present, is a central notion in the text.

Character Analysis:

Orkney Villagers:

The Orkney villagers lead seemingly ordinary lives that are, in reality, heavily intertwined with the history of their land.
Their ancestral knowledge and customs shape their life choices, roles, responsibilities, and community bonds.

Techniques and Effects:

Mackay Brown uses rich historical detail skilfully to infuse an authentic sense of time and place.
He explores the dialect of Orkney, using it as a tool to integrate the reader into the setting and culture.
His use of imagery and descriptive language brings historical Orkney vividly to life, immersing the reader in its rich local culture and history.

Quotes and Analysis:

“In the crofts and homes of Orkney, the past was always alive.” - This quote highlights the cyclical nature of time in the narrative, suggesting a sense of continuity between the past and the present in the characters’ lives.
“The fragments of forgotten tales and legends, like fragments of broken pottery, were lovingly picked up and pieced together.” - The use of simile in this quote underscores the villagers’ deep respect and reverence for their historical past.