Theme of Work in Montana 1948 David You 10th Grade

After WWII, many soldiers returned home to a new world. As more and more females joined the workforce, the American identity shifted from a primarily male dominated society to an integrated society between men and women. The burdens of everyday life of females quickly expanded to more than just child care and cooking. In Montana 1948, this notion of work and duty within Bentrock reflects the American society. The ideals of this community demonstrates the powerful change after WWII while also exemplifying the social norms still intact. These norms included race and gender, especially in Bentrock, where a substantial Native American population was present. The idea of work and the meaning of labor reflected the ideals of this society, clarifying its social norms and some of its limitations on social acceptance and advancement.

Work in Bentrock is a form of power and authority over the community. As community leaders of the town, the grandfather and his deputy continue to switch positions as sheriff of the town. “When Grandfather’s term expired, his deputy, Len McAuley, would serve a term; after Len’s term, Grandfather would run again, and this way they kept the office in the proper hands.” This cycle of authority shows the...