Farmers

Definition

Farmers are individuals engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops and raising livestock for food, fiber, and other products. This role is crucial within the framework of rural naturalism, where literature often depicts the struggles and realities of farming life, reflecting themes such as the relationship between humans and nature, socio-economic challenges, and the impact of industrialization on rural communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Farmers are often portrayed as individuals who face harsh environmental conditions and economic pressures, showcasing their resilience in literature.
2. The shift towards industrialization in the late 19th century led to significant changes in farming practices, impacting traditional farmer lifestyles.
3. Rural naturalism explores the tension between farmers' dependence on nature and the encroaching influence of urbanization and industrial growth.
4. Literary works featuring farmers often highlight the themes of community, tradition, and the struggle against both natural and man-made adversities.
5. The experiences of farmers in literature often serve as a critique of societal values, emphasizing the importance of land stewardship and sustainability.

Review Questions

• How do literary depictions of farmers reflect the struggles associated with agricultural life?
  • Literary depictions of farmers often highlight the physical and emotional struggles they face in their daily lives. These narratives showcase the harsh realities of farming, including battles against unpredictable weather, economic uncertainty, and societal pressures. By illustrating these challenges, literature emphasizes the resilience and determination of farmers, making their experiences relatable and poignant for readers.
• In what ways does rural naturalism challenge traditional views of farming and agrarian life?
  • Rural naturalism challenges traditional views by presenting a more realistic and sometimes harsh portrayal of farming life. Instead of romanticizing the agrarian lifestyle, it exposes the difficulties farmers encounter, such as financial instability, environmental degradation, and social isolation. This perspective encourages readers to consider the complex interplay between farmers, their land, and broader societal forces that affect their livelihoods.
• Evaluate how the depiction of farmers in rural naturalism serves as a commentary on broader societal changes during the late 19th century.
  • The depiction of farmers in rural naturalism serves as a critical commentary on the societal changes occurring during the late 19th century, particularly due to industrialization and urbanization. As cities grew and industries expanded, many traditional farming practices faced decline, leading to economic upheaval for rural communities. Literature from this period captures the struggles of farmers adapting to these changes while also highlighting their essential role in sustaining society. This juxtaposition not only critiques the rapid pace of change but also underscores the importance of preserving agrarian values in an increasingly industrial world.

Related terms

Agrarianism: A social and political philosophy that values rural society as superior to urban society and promotes farming as a way of life.

Subsistence Farming: A type of farming in which farmers grow food primarily for their own consumption rather than for sale.

Naturalism: A literary movement that suggests human behavior is determined by environment, heredity, and social conditions, often portraying a pessimistic view of life.