Historical Context

Background of ‘The Cone Gatherers’

Setting in World War II

‘The Cone Gatherers’ is set during the Second World War, which deeply impacts the lives of all the characters. This historical context showcases the societal changes and challenges faced during the war.
The global conflict instills a sense of distress, fear and unrest in the characters, especially mirrored in Duror’s deteriorating mental state.
The war also enhances the novel’s themes of inequality and discrimination, as it parallels the power struggles, injustice and violent aspects of the war.

Life on Home Front

The story provides an insight into the Home Front experience, depicting the realities of people far removed from the actual battlegrounds but still affected by the war.
The rationing of resources, increased workload, fear of enemy attacks, and the presence of evacuees capture the strain and disruption caused by the war on everyday lives.

Scottish Rural Scene

The novel is firmly placed in the Scottish Highlands, showcasing the lifestyle, attitudes and hardships of rural Scotland during the war.
The remote setting also highlights the divide and friction between the feudal system and the changes brought by the war, reflected in the characters’ attitudes, behaviours and dilemmas.

Class System and Discrimination

Class Hierarchies

The narrative reflects the persistent class divisions prevalent in mid-20th century Scotland. It showcases the struggles, prejudices and aspirations of the characters in relation to their social standing.
Instances like Duror’s resentment towards the higher class and the brother’s lower status despite their integral work, spotlight the pervading inequities and tensions within the society.

Discrimination

The novel signifies the unchecked discrimination and ill-treatment of individuals based on their physical attributes or social standing, reflecting the societal norms of the time.
Calum’s character, subject to frequent scorn and hostility due to his hunchback, symbolises the victims of such discrimination. The injustice and unfairness meted out towards him underscores the author’s critique of society’s pervasive cruelty.

Influence of War Experiences

Author’s Personal Experiences

The writer, Robin Jenkins, served in the military during WWII, and his experiences undoubtedly shape the portrayal of war in ‘The Cone Gatherers.’ His insight into the horrors and moral ambiguities of war add authenticity and depth to the narrative.
The instances of brutality, hatred, and underlying tension throughout the story can be seen as an allegorical representation of the devastation and moral decay caused by the war.

These aspects of historical context enrich ‘The Cone Gatherers,’ providing a compelling and enlightening portrayal of the harsh reality of WWII Scotland. Understanding the historical background enhances our comprehension of the characters and their motivations, and offers deeper insights into the novel’s themes and symbolism.