For Home and Country

Main Themes and Topics

For Home and Country by Celia M. Kingsbury explores the intricate web of propaganda that targeted noncombatants, particularly women and children, on the home front during World War I. This book delves into how various forms of media, including cookbooks, magazines, and even toys, were strategically employed to influence domestic habits and support the war effort. Kingsbury sheds light on the cultural battle waged through these materials, demonstrating how they were used to instill fear, patriotism, and a sense of duty among civilians.

A significant focus of the book is on the gendered aspect of propaganda, examining how women were both the targets and tools of propaganda campaigns. By dissecting literary texts, songs, and posters, Kingsbury reveals the pressure placed on women to alter their lives for the nation's benefit. This not only entailed changes in their cooking and household management but also in nurturing a war-supportive environment at home.

Writing Style and Tone

Celia M. Kingsbury employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style in For Home and Country. Her tone is analytical, offering a well-researched perspective grounded in historical evidence. Kingsbury's narrative is enriched with detailed examinations of various propaganda materials, making the book both informative and engaging for readers interested in cultural and gender studies, as well as history enthusiasts.

Brief Summary

For Home and Country addresses the lesser-explored aspect of World War I—the cultural battle waged on the home front through propaganda directed at civilians. By analyzing a diverse array of materials, Celia M. Kingsbury illustrates how propaganda permeated everyday life, influencing women and children’s roles and responsibilities during the war. The book provides a comprehensive look at how these strategies crafted a narrative that fueled the war effort far beyond the battlefield.