In her 1980 novel, Housekeeping, Marilynne Robinson tells a timeless tale of family, loss, and the search for home. Set in a small town in Idaho, the novel follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are orphaned at a young age and left in the care of their eccentric aunt, Sylvie. As the girls grow up, they struggle to find their place in the world and come to terms with the ghosts of their past. In this synopsis, we will explore the themes and characters of Housekeeping and examine how Robinson’s masterful storytelling has made it a classic of modern literature.
The Timeless Tale of Housekeeping (1980): A Synopsis by Marilynne Robinson
In her novel Housekeeping, Marilynne Robinson tells the story of Ruth and her younger sister Lucille, who are left in the care of their eccentric aunt Sylvie after their mother’s suicide. Sylvie, a drifter who has never had a permanent home, struggles to provide a stable environment for the girls. As Ruth grows older, she becomes increasingly drawn to Sylvie’s unconventional lifestyle and begins to reject the expectations of her small town community. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain. Robinson’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of the natural world make Housekeeping a timeless tale that continues to resonate with readers today.
Background
Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping is a novel that explores the themes of family, loss, and the search for identity. The novel was first published in 1980 and has since become a classic of American literature. Robinson’s writing style is characterized by its poetic language and its ability to capture the essence of the human experience. The novel is set in the fictional town of Fingerbone, Idaho, and follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are left in the care of their eccentric aunt Sylvie after their mother’s suicide. The novel is a haunting and beautiful exploration of the human condition, and it has been praised for its lyrical prose and its ability to capture the complexities of family relationships.
Characters
The characters in Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping are complex and multi-dimensional. The protagonist, Ruth, is a young girl who is forced to navigate the challenges of growing up without a stable family structure. Her mother committed suicide when she was a baby, and her father left soon after. Ruth’s aunt, Sylvie, comes to take care of her and her sister, Lucille, but she is an unconventional caretaker who struggles to conform to societal norms. Sylvie’s presence in the household disrupts the routine and stability that Ruth and Lucille crave, leading to tension and conflict. The characters in Housekeeping are flawed and imperfect, but they are also deeply human and relatable. Robinson’s masterful characterization brings them to life on the page, making them feel like real people with real struggles and emotions.
Plot Summary
The Timeless Tale of Housekeeping (1980) is a novel by Marilynne Robinson that tells the story of Ruth Stone, a young woman who is orphaned at a young age and raised by her grandmother in a small town in Idaho. After her grandmother dies, Ruth is left alone and decides to leave her hometown to live with her aunt Sylvie, who is a drifter and has a reputation for being unreliable. Ruth’s decision to live with Sylvie sets off a chain of events that will change her life forever. As Ruth struggles to adapt to her new life with Sylvie, she must confront the ghosts of her past and come to terms with her own identity. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in life.
Setting
The setting of Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping is a small town in Idaho called Fingerbone. The town is situated on a lake and surrounded by mountains, which provide a beautiful backdrop for the story. The town is isolated and remote, which adds to the sense of loneliness and isolation felt by the characters. The house where the main character, Ruth, lives with her grandmother is located on the edge of town, overlooking the lake. The house is old and rundown, with a leaky roof and peeling paint. The setting of the novel is an important aspect of the story, as it reflects the characters’ sense of displacement and their struggle to find a sense of belonging in the world.
Themes
One of the central themes in Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping is the idea of home and what it means to different people. The novel explores the concept of home as a physical space, as well as a place of emotional and psychological comfort. The protagonist, Ruth, struggles with the loss of her mother and the absence of a stable home life, leading her to question her own sense of belonging and identity. Additionally, the novel delves into the theme of gender roles and expectations, as Ruth and her sister Lucille navigate their relationships with their female relatives and the men in their lives. Through these themes, Robinson offers a poignant commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the search for a sense of place in the world.
Symbolism
Symbolism plays a significant role in Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping. The novel is filled with various symbols that represent different themes and ideas. One of the most prominent symbols in the book is the lake. The lake represents the fluidity of life and the constant change that occurs. It also represents the unknown and the mysterious, as the characters are often unsure of what lies beneath the surface. Another important symbol is the train, which represents the idea of escape and the desire to leave one’s current situation. The train is a recurring motif throughout the novel, and it serves as a reminder that there is always a way out. Overall, the use of symbolism in Housekeeping adds depth and complexity to the story, and it allows readers to explore the themes and ideas in a more meaningful way.
Style and Language
Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping (1980) is a literary masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The novel’s style and language are as captivating as its plot, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates good literature. Robinson’s writing is poetic and lyrical, with a keen eye for detail that brings the story’s setting to life. Her use of metaphors and symbolism adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it a rich and rewarding read. The language is simple yet elegant, with a rhythm that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged. Overall, Housekeeping is a shining example of how style and language can elevate a story to greatness.
Critical Reception
The critical reception of Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping has been overwhelmingly positive since its publication in 1980. The novel has been praised for its lyrical prose, vivid imagery, and exploration of themes such as loss, identity, and the search for meaning. Critics have also lauded Robinson’s ability to create complex and nuanced characters, particularly the protagonist Ruth, who struggles to find her place in the world after the death of her mother. Many have noted the novel’s similarities to the works of William Faulkner and Flannery O’Connor, while also acknowledging Robinson’s unique voice and perspective. Overall, Housekeeping has been hailed as a modern classic and a testament to Robinson’s talent as a writer.
Comparisons to Other Works
When it comes to comparisons to other works, Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping (1980) stands out as a unique and timeless tale. While some have drawn parallels to other works of literature, such as William Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying or Carson McCullers’ The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, Housekeeping remains a singular and unforgettable story. Its themes of loss, family, and the search for identity resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, making it a classic of modern American literature. Robinson’s prose is both poetic and haunting, drawing readers into the world of her characters and leaving a lasting impression. While comparisons to other works may be made, Housekeeping stands on its own as a masterpiece of storytelling.
Historical Context
In the late 1970s, the United States was experiencing a cultural shift. The feminist movement was gaining momentum, and women were beginning to challenge traditional gender roles. This context is important to consider when reading Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping, which was published in 1980. The novel explores themes of domesticity, motherhood, and the search for identity, all of which were relevant to the changing social landscape of the time. Additionally, Robinson’s use of magical realism and her focus on the natural world reflect a growing interest in environmentalism and a desire to reconnect with nature. Understanding the historical context in which Housekeeping was written can deepen our appreciation for the novel’s themes and the ways in which it speaks to the concerns of its time.
Religious and Philosophical Influences
Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping (1980) is a novel that explores the themes of religion and philosophy. The author’s religious background is evident in the novel, as she draws on her Calvinist beliefs to create a story that is both haunting and thought-provoking. The novel’s protagonist, Ruth, is raised by her grandmother, who is a devout Christian. Ruth’s grandmother instills in her a sense of morality and a belief in the afterlife, which shapes Ruth’s worldview throughout the novel.
The novel also explores the philosophical concept of existentialism, which emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility in creating their own meaning in life. Ruth’s mother, who is a wanderer and unable to settle down, embodies this philosophy. She rejects the traditional roles of wife and mother and instead chooses to live a life of freedom and independence.
Religious and philosophical influences are intertwined in Housekeeping, as the characters grapple with questions of faith, morality, and the meaning of life. The novel’s exploration of these themes makes it a timeless tale that continues to resonate with readers today.
Gender and Feminism
In Marilynne Robinson’s novel Housekeeping (1980), the themes of gender and feminism are prominent throughout the story. The novel follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are raised by their grandmother in a small town in Idaho. As the girls grow up, they struggle with their identities as women in a society that places strict expectations on gender roles.
Ruth, the younger sister, is more comfortable with traditional feminine roles such as cooking and cleaning, while Lucille rebels against these expectations and seeks independence. The novel explores the tension between these two approaches to femininity and the societal pressures that shape them.
Additionally, Housekeeping delves into the concept of motherhood and the ways in which it is idealized and romanticized in society. The absence of the girls’ mother and the unconventional parenting style of their grandmother highlight the limitations of traditional motherhood and the need for alternative forms of nurturing and support.
Overall, Housekeeping offers a nuanced exploration of gender and feminism that challenges traditional notions of femininity and motherhood. Robinson’s novel remains a timeless tale that continues to resonate with readers today.
Family and Relationships
In Marilynne Robinson’s novel Housekeeping (1980), family and relationships play a central role in the story. The novel follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are left in the care of their grandmother after their mother’s suicide. As the girls grow up, they struggle to find their place in the world and to come to terms with their family’s troubled past. Along the way, they form close bonds with their grandmother and with each other, but also experience the pain of loss and separation. Through their experiences, Robinson explores the complex dynamics of family relationships and the ways in which they shape our lives. Ultimately, Housekeeping is a powerful meditation on the enduring bonds of love and the importance of family in our lives.
Identity and Belonging
In Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping, the theme of identity and belonging is explored through the protagonist Ruth’s search for a sense of home and connection. Ruth’s mother and grandmother both died when she was young, leaving her with a sense of rootlessness and a longing for a stable family. She finds temporary solace in her relationship with her aunt Sylvie, who is also struggling with her own sense of identity and belonging. Together, they create a makeshift home in the decaying family house, but their unconventional lifestyle and Sylvie’s mental instability threaten to uproot Ruth once again. Through Ruth’s journey, Robinson highlights the importance of finding a sense of belonging and the challenges that come with it.
Loneliness and Isolation
In Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping (1980), the theme of loneliness and isolation is prevalent throughout the novel. The protagonist, Ruth, is left to navigate her life after the death of her mother and the departure of her sister. She is left with her eccentric aunt, Sylvie, who is also struggling with her own sense of isolation. The two women live in a remote town in Idaho, where they are seen as outsiders by the community. Ruth’s loneliness is further compounded by her inability to connect with her classmates and her longing for her absent family members. The novel explores the effects of isolation on the human psyche and the ways in which individuals cope with their loneliness. Robinson’s poignant portrayal of Ruth’s struggles with isolation serves as a reminder of the importance of human connection and the devastating effects of loneliness.
Mental Illness and Trauma
In Marilynne Robinson’s novel Housekeeping (1980), mental illness and trauma are central themes that shape the lives of the characters. The protagonist, Ruthie, experiences the loss of her mother at a young age and is left in the care of her unstable grandmother and aunt. As a result, Ruthie struggles with feelings of abandonment and detachment, which ultimately lead to her own mental breakdown.
Robinson’s portrayal of mental illness is nuanced and empathetic, highlighting the ways in which trauma can impact a person’s mental health. Through Ruthie’s experiences, the novel explores the complex interplay between nature and nurture, as well as the importance of community and support in healing from trauma.
Overall, Housekeeping offers a poignant and insightful exploration of mental illness and trauma, reminding readers of the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing these complex issues.
Love and Loss
In Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping, the theme of love and loss is prevalent throughout the novel. The story follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are left in the care of their grandmother after their mother’s suicide. As the girls grow older, they struggle to come to terms with their mother’s death and the absence of their father. The novel explores the different ways in which the characters cope with loss and how it affects their relationships with each other. Ruth, the narrator of the story, reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the inevitability of loss. She says, “Love is not a steady thing, nor is it a place, but a direction. It is the inclination of the heart towards the good.” Through Ruth’s reflections, Robinson highlights the importance of cherishing the moments of love and connection we have with others, even if they are fleeting. The novel also explores the idea that loss can be transformative, leading to growth and self-discovery. As Ruth and Lucille navigate their way through life, they learn to accept the impermanence of love and the inevitability of loss, ultimately finding a sense of peace in the midst of their grief.
Symbolism of Water
Water is a recurring symbol in Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping. It represents both life and death, renewal and destruction. The novel is set in a small town in Idaho, near a lake that is both beautiful and dangerous. The lake is a source of life for the town, providing fish and water for irrigation, but it is also a place where people drown. The water in the lake is both inviting and treacherous, just like life itself.
The protagonist, Ruth, is fascinated by water. She spends hours watching the lake and the river that runs through the town. She is drawn to the water’s beauty and power, but she is also aware of its dangers. When her mother and grandmother both drown in the lake, Ruth becomes even more obsessed with water. She sees it as a force that can both give and take away life.
Water is also a symbol of change and transformation in the novel. When Ruth’s aunt Sylvie comes to live with her and her sister, she brings with her a sense of impermanence. Sylvie is a drifter who has never had a permanent home, and she is always on the move. She is like water, flowing from one place to another. Ruth is both fascinated and frightened by Sylvie’s fluidity. She sees in her aunt the possibility of change and transformation, but she is also afraid of losing her own sense of stability.
In Housekeeping, water is a powerful symbol that represents both life and death, renewal and destruction, and change and transformation. It is a reminder that life is both beautiful and dangerous, and that we must learn to navigate its currents if we are to survive.