Exploring the Realism of Polygamous Relationships in TV Dramas
When analyzing television dramas such as Big Love and The Handmaid’s Tale, it is crucial to understand that these portrayals do not generalize all forms of polygamy. Big Love does not aim to depict all polygamous relationships but instead focuses on a specific type of relationship within a particular cultural and social context. This article explores the nuances of these portrayals and provides insights into the realism of polygamous relationships as depicted in these TV dramas.
Portraying Reality in Big Love
Homogeneity in Legal and Social Contexts
Big Love is a television series that focuses on the life of a polygamous Mormon family, primarily centered around the character of Glen Beck. It is important to understand that this portrayal is not an attempt to represent all polygamous relationships, but rather a depiction of a specific type found within a specific community. The series captures the reality of a conservative Mormon household, where polygamy is a voluntarily and deeply integrated aspect of their lifestyle.
This approach contrasts with the portrayal of non-voluntary polygamy as seen in movies like The Handmaid’s Tale. In this series, women are not ‘sister-wives’ but are instead coerced into a role. Such depictions are fundamentally different from Big Love, which highlights the voluntary and consensual nature of the relationships depicted.
Legal and Social Context: South Africa’s Vision
A Legal Polygamous Marriage
The portrayal of polygamy can also vary based on legal and social contexts. For instance, Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa, maintained several wives throughout his life. This arrangement is legal in South Africa, where polygamy is widely practiced and accepted in certain communities. However, in this case, the social environment and cultural acceptance of polygamy differ significantly from that of the Mormon community depicted in Big Love.
Big Love focuses on a specific ethnic and religious group (Mormons) where polygamy is a core belief. In these communities, the relationships are characterized by mutual respect, consent, and religious conviction. This differs from the forced marriages often depicted in other portrayals such as that of the Handmaids in The Handmaid’s Tale.
Realism in Portrayal
Realistic Depiction
From an outside perspective, Big Love is portrayed as a relatively realistic depiction of the type of marriage it illustrates, though this realism needs to be contextualized within the specific cultural and religious framework of the Mormon community. The show captures the complexities, challenges, and daily life issues faced by the Beck family, highlighting the emotional depth and the often-untold stories of polygamous marriages.
One of the strengths of Big Love is its exploration of the inner workings of a polygamous household. It delves into the emotions, conflicts, and the daily grind of maintaining multiple relationships. The show is not a glorification of polygamy but rather an honest portrayal of a lifestyle that is part of a specific cultural and religious tradition.
Conclusion: A Nuanced Perspective
While Big Love effectively captures the reality of a specific form of polygamy within the Mormon community, it is essential to recognize that this portrayal does not encompass the entirety of polygamous relationships. Understanding the context, legal, and social ramifications of each community is crucial for a nuanced and accurate portrayal of polygamous life.
The portrayal of Jacob Zuma and the Handmaids in The Handmaid’s Tale highlight the diverse and complex nature of polygamous relationships in different parts of the world. Legal and cultural contexts play a significant role in shaping the reality of these relationships, as does the voluntary or forced nature of the unions.