‘I’m Not One to Gossip’

Abstract

The introduction of female writers to The Archers in 1975 brought a new perspective to the programme, revitalising its profile and cementing its place in the British psyche. This ‘feminisation’ of the programme was an important turning point for the women of Ambridge with increasing focus on issues important to them. This chapter argues that until this time storylines had tended to position women in the background of farming life, their identities shaped solely in terms of their relationships with the men of the village, as homemakers, carers and love-interests. The new band of female writers meant that the women of Ambridge were able to emerge as fully-rounded characters in their own right, as professionals, farmers, business women and matriarchs, at the forefront of village life. It goes on to discuss the character and function of Susan Carter, from the writer's perspective of both a research psychologist and the actor who plays Susan. It is argued that Susan utilises gossip not only as a tool with which to create interpersonal alliances and cement friendships but also to enhance her damaged self-worth and increase her status and power as a fount of all Ambridge knowledge.

Citation

Connor, C., Martin, a.C. and Carter, S. (2019), "‘I’m Not One to Gossip’", Courage, C. and Headlam, N. (Ed.) Gender, Sex and Gossip in Ambridge, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 21-33. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-78769-945-820191005