Mother and Son: Historical Context

Mother and Son: Historical Context

Historical Context of “Mother and Son”

Post-World War II Period

• During this period, Scotland was undergoing changes socially, economically, and culturally.
• There was a growth in industry and technology, leading to the move away from traditional ways of life.
• People started migrating to cities for work, causing a decline in population in the rural areas.

Scottish Gaelic Community

• The story takes place in an isolated Gaelic community which was impacted by these social changes.
• The Gaelic language was traditionally spoken, and the shift to English led to further isolation of the community.
• These changes created a cultural clash, a central theme explored in the story.

Religion in the Region

• The Island communities were deeply religious, mainly following Calvinist doctrine.
• The doctrine had strict rules and created a repressive atmosphere, reflected in the character of the mother.
• Simultaneously, there was a rise in secularism during this era, contributing to furthering the cultural divide.

Economic Conditions

• The region where the story is set was predominantly fishing and crofting communities.
• The changes brought by the post-war era led to economic challenges for these communities.
• A sense of poverty and struggle is pervasive throughout the story.

Conclusion

• Understanding the historical context is crucial to interpreting “Mother and Son”.
• It provides rich insights into the struggles and transformations experienced by the characters, reflecting the wider social changes of that era.