Stories don’t happen in a vacuum. They’re rooted in time, place, culture, and history. Understanding these elements is crucial to truly grasping a narrative – and that’s where Background Information comes in. It’s the contextual foundation that enriches our reading experience and unlocks deeper meaning. Let’s explore this vital literary device.
What is Background Information?
Background Information, in literature, refers to the details surrounding a story—the historical, social, cultural, and political context that informs the characters, setting, and plot. It’s the stuff before the story begins, but which significantly shapes everything that does happen. It can be explicitly stated within the text, or implied, requiring the reader to draw inferences.
A Simple Definition
Essentially, background information answers the question “What was going on before the story started, and how does that matter?”
Quick Examples
- Example 1: A story set during the Great Depression will require understanding the economic hardship of the time to fully appreciate the characters’ struggles.
- Example 2: A medieval fantasy novel benefits from knowledge of feudal systems, knightly codes, and societal hierarchies.
- Example 3: A tale about the American Civil Rights Movement needs recognition of segregation, discrimination, and the fight for equality.
Why is Background Information Important?
Without background information, stories can feel flat or confusing. It’s the lens through which we interpret events and character motivations. It adds layers of complexity and nuance, transforming a simple narrative into a rich, meaningful experience. Think of it as the soil from which the story’s tree grows; the healthier the soil, the stronger and more vibrant the tree.
Types of Background Information
Background information isn’t a single entity. It encompasses several key areas:
Historical Context
This refers to the specific time period in which the story is set. Understanding the historical events, trends, and beliefs of that era is crucial.
Example: Shakespeare’s Hamlet is profoundly influenced by the Elizabethan era’s preoccupation with revenge, political intrigue, and the supernatural. Without understanding the context of the time, the play’s themes and symbolism might be lost.
Social Context
This involves the societal norms, values, customs, and social structures prevalent during the story’s setting.
Example: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice reflects the strict social conventions of 19th century England, particularly regarding marriage, class, and gender roles. The characters’ actions and motivations are deeply rooted in these societal expectations.
Cultural Context
This explores the beliefs, traditions, art, music, and folklore of the story’s setting.
Example: Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart immerses readers in the Igbo culture of pre-colonial Nigeria. Understanding the Igbo system of governance, religious beliefs, and social customs is essential to appreciating the novel’s tragic events.
Political Context
This encompasses the political systems, power dynamics, and conflicts that shape the story’s world.
Example: George Orwell’s Animal Farm is an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism. Understanding the political climate of 20th century Russia is crucial to interpreting the novel’s satire and its commentary on totalitarianism.
Identifying Background Information in a Text
Authors employ various techniques to convey background information:
Direct Exposition
The author explicitly provides details about the setting, history, or culture.
Example: “In the kingdom of Eldoria, magic was once commonplace, but a great cataclysm centuries ago banished it from the land, leaving only whispers and legends.”
Indirect Exposition
The author reveals background information through character dialogue, actions, and descriptions.
Example: A character lamenting the loss of a family heirloom hints at a past conflict or societal upheaval. A detailed description of a crumbling building suggests a history of neglect or disaster.
Allusions
The author references historical events, literary works, or cultural figures, assuming the reader has some familiarity with them.
Example: A character compared to “Brutus” alludes to the Roman betrayer and implies similar characteristics or intentions.
In-Depth Examples Showcasing Background Information
Let’s examine how background information enriches understanding in several well-known works:
Example 1: The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This novel is steeped in the strict Puritan society of 17th century Boston. Understanding the Puritan beliefs about sin, redemption, and social conformity is vital to grasping the significance of Hester Prynne’s public shaming and her struggle for acceptance. The historical context of the Puritan settlement and its values underpins the entire narrative.
Example 2: One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
To truly appreciate this magical realism novel, one needs to understand the history of Colombia, its turbulent political climate, and its cycles of violence. The novel’s setting, the fictional town of Macondo, mirrors the real-life experiences of many Latin American communities, grappling with colonialism, civil war, and economic exploitation. Without this background, the novel’s symbolism and themes might remain opaque.
Example 3: Beloved by Toni Morrison
Morrison’s masterpiece tackles the horrific legacy of slavery in the United States. Understanding the historical realities of slavery—the brutality, dehumanization, and psychological trauma—is essential to comprehending the characters’ suffering and their struggle to reclaim their identity. The novel deliberately challenges the sanitized narratives of the past and forces readers to confront the painful truths of American history.
Another Example: Consider a story set during World War II. Without knowing about the major players, the political tensions, the key battles, and the impact on civilians, it would be challenging to understand the characters’ motivations, fears, and sacrifices.
Why is Background Information Important for Writers?
For aspiring writers, understanding background information isn’t just about enriching your storytelling; it’s about building believable worlds and authentic characters. Researching the historical, social, and cultural context of your story is crucial to creating a narrative that resonates with readers. The more informed you are, the more nuanced and compelling your story will become.
Conclusion
Background information is the unseen foundation of any compelling story. It’s the context that breathes life into characters, shapes events, and unlocks deeper meaning. By paying attention to the historical, social, cultural, and political forces at play, readers can unlock a richer, more rewarding reading experience. And for writers, it’s an indispensable tool for crafting authentic, compelling narratives that resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.