A Sense of Belonging: Religion and Identity in British Fishing Communities

This book explores the relationship between identity and religion in British Fishing Communities during the 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on three communities: Scarborough, Filey, and Grimsby. It examines religion as a range of discourses and narratives that provide a way of viewing the matrix of meaning and the role of ritual and performance in providing a sense of security, stability, and belonging.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This volume delves into the intricate relationship between identity and religion in British Fishing Communities during the 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on three distinct communities in the UK: Scarborough, Filey, and Grimsby. Providing a concise overview of the development of these communities, the study highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship between institutionalized and popular religion. It explores religion as a rich tapestry of discourses and narratives that offer a lens through which to comprehend the complex matrix of meaning that has profoundly shaped the construction and maintenance of identity. Furthermore, the volume examines the crucial role of ritual and performance in the daily lives of community members, recognizing their profound impact on fostering a sense of security, stability, and belonging.

The study begins by providing a historical backdrop, tracing the evolution of these fishing communities and the role that religion has played in their lives. It highlights the diverse religious practices and beliefs that have flourished within these communities, from traditional Anglicanism to more recent forms of Protestantism and Catholicism. The authors then delve into the ways in which religion has influenced the formation of identity, both individually and collectively.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the role of ritual and performance in constructing and reinforcing identity. The authors argue that religious practices and ceremonies play a vital role in shaping the way community members perceive themselves and their place in the world. Rituals and performances, such as baptism, confirmation, and communion, serve as markers of identity and provide a sense of continuity and belonging. They also play a role in mediating relationships between different groups within the community, promoting social cohesion and harmony.

Furthermore, the volume examines the ways in which religion has been used to justify and maintain social hierarchies within fishing communities. The authors argue that religious beliefs and practices have been used to reinforce the dominance of certain groups over others, particularly in terms of access to resources and social status. For example, in some communities, religious beliefs about the purity of women and the importance of childbirth were used to justify the exclusion of women from certain roles and activities, such as fishing.

Another important theme explored in the volume is the relationship between religion and secularization. The authors argue that while religion has continued to play a significant role in the lives of many community members, it has also been subject to secularization and modernization. This has led to a decline in religious participation and a shift towards more secular forms of identity construction. However, the authors also note that religion continues to have a residual impact on the lives of community members, particularly in terms of its influence on social norms, values, and beliefs.

In conclusion, this volume offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the relationship between identity and religion in British Fishing Communities during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It provides a rich tapestry of historical, social, and cultural analysis that sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of this relationship. The authors' nuanced and thoughtful approach to the subject matter makes this volume an essential read for scholars and researchers interested in the study of religion, identity, and social change.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350278240