ENGLISH EXTENSION 1

MODULE B: TEXTS AND WAYS OF THINKING

ELECTIVE 1:
THE INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY

Module B: Texts and Ways of Thinking
This module involves the study of texts which reflect a chosen time period. In doing so, we
develop and understanding of how scientific, religious, philosophical or economic
paradigms have formed, and how this has reflected the development of literature.
Time period: 19
th
century

Elective 1: The Individual and Society
The individual suggests:
Difference
Autonomy (the act of self-governing)
Independence
Through this study, we achieve a greater understanding of:
The individuals position within society
Conflict between the individuals sense of self and social convention
The individual as an agent for self-determination

Paradigms
A paradigm is a way of thinking it is a thought PATTERN (implying it is repeated). The
paradigm suggests:
Perspective (or assumptions, concepts, values, practices) which constitutes how
reality is meant to be interpreted.
It can be a generally accepted view at a given time or it may prevail and transcend
time.
This view affects the individual in how they respond.
These paradigms are subject to the influence of changing environments, which in turn
affects the individuals interpretation of the world.
For instance, by the beginning of the 19
th
century, some certainties were being challenged,
such as the rule of the monarchy or aristocracy.

The 19
th
Century
This was a time of change:
Authority of the church was being challenged by new scientific understanding.
The suffering of the lower classes was challenged by rising middle class of
wealthy industrialists.
These changes were driven by the increasing education and literacy, and more ideas were
communicated to the people. Values of this time which were both prominent and challenged
include:
Patriarchal dominance
o There was a focus on a secure, stable, family life.
o The role of women:
Inferiority of the female
Association of the female in the domestic sphere
Male dominance in all spheres of life
Marriage as an economic arrangement
Women were politically, socially, and economically dependent on men. A
womans goal in life was to marry and become a mother.
Traditional social hierarchy
The basis of power depended on the ownership of land and on birth.
o Aristocratic rule
o Limited social mobility.
o Reputation

Morality esp. with regards to finance
o Moral implications of being free from debt.
o Focus on financial success.
o Concerns about being free of guilt.