Exploring Cultural Traditions Through “Through the Tunnel”: A Prereading Guide
As we delve into the literary world, it becomes essential to study the cultural influences that shaped the works of famous authors and poets. One such classic story that explores cultural traditions in an in-depth manner is “Through the Tunnel” by Doris Lessing. The story explores the protagonist Jerry’s journey towards adolescence and depicts the cultural traditions of different regions in Europe. In this article, we will analyze the significance of the story and explore ways to understand the cultural context in which the story is set.
Understanding the cultural context is the key to appreciate the nuances of the story. “Through the Tunnel” is set in a coastal region on the Mediterranean, with the story unfolding against the backdrop of beach life in different regions. As Jerry’s mother and himself travel to the region for a vacation, they come across a group of tourists from France. The French tourists and the local boys of the region provide an insight into the cultural differences that exist in Europe. The story explores how different cultures have different norms and traditions when it comes to parenting, communication, and socialization.
The story also touches upon the theme of rites of passage, which is prevalent in many cultures. The protagonist, Jerry, is shown to be struggling with the challenges of having to prove his manhood. In the story, Jerry’s journey towards manhood involves swimming through a tunnel in the ocean, a feat that he accomplishes in the end. The tunnel symbolizes the obstacles that Jerry must face to cross over to adulthood, and the ocean represents the vast challenges and infinite possibilities that life holds.
To appreciate the cultural context of “Through the Tunnel,” it is essential to first explore the various cultural traditions and customs that exist in Europe. Europe is a continent that has diverse cultures, languages, and social norms. This diversity has been shaped by the continent’s long and tumultuous history, with each country having its unique traditions and practices that define its cultural identity.
In France, for instance, parenting involves a more laissez-faire approach, where parents provide their children with more freedom and independence. In contrast, in Italy, close-knit family ties and strong societal norms define the culture. Similarly, in Spain, family and community are essential, with festivals, traditions, and customs playing a central role in shaping the society.
To further understand the cultural context, it is also necessary to explore the role of rituals and rites of passage in different cultures. Rituals are a way of expressing and reinforcing cultural traditions and beliefs, and rites of passage are essential in marking an individual’s transition from one stage of development to another.
In “Through the Tunnel,” Jerry’s journey towards manhood is marked by the difficult task of swimming through the tunnel. This feat symbolizes the challenges that boys face as they move towards adolescence and adulthood. In many cultures, rites of passage are marked by specific tasks or rituals that individuals must complete to prove their readiness for adulthood. These rituals may involve circumcision, the hunt, or even marriage.
In conclusion, exploring cultural traditions is an essential aspect of literary analysis. Through the story “Through the Tunnel,” we can appreciate the cultural context and the differences that exist between various European countries. By studying the customs and practices of different cultures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the societal norms that shape the lives of people around the world. Understanding cultural traditions helps us appreciate the literary works that have been influenced by these traditions, making us more informed readers and better equipped to appreciate the nuances of great literature.
