The Force of Circumstance

The Force of Circumstance Question: In what ways is this story dated? Does it still retain the interest and sympathy of the modern day reader, and if so, how? ‘The Force of Circumstance’ is set in colonial Malaysia; so naturally, the attitudes and views of the characters concerned are different to those of the present day. The most obvious example is the racial difference, where the white colonists exploit and treat the natives as inferior …

…natural. In today’s society, this would be deemed more or less acceptable, considering the circumstances. The two conflicting ideas result in Doris moving back to England, and Guy’s native wife moving back in with him. Emotions are timeless, and no matter what situation they are placed in, they seem to evoke sympathy. Modern or not, the reader should be aware, to fully understand and enjoy the ideas and resulting emotions in this story.