Analysis

Here you can read a summary of the analysis we will convey in the next pages of the study guide.

“Weekend” by Fay Weldon follows a few characters during a weekend at a cottage. Although the text respects the short story elements of a single event and a few characters, the text does not follow a traditional plot structure.

The most important character in the short story is Martha. However, we will also characterise her husband Martin and Katie, as the underlying conflicts she has with them make these two characters relevant for the story’s themes.

Some of the most important aspects of the setting are the social ones, related to gender roles in 1970s society, to social classes, and to family and marriage. Also, relevant elements of the physical setting are the characters’ house, Martha's car, and the cottage.

We will also focus on the narrator and language of the story. The language of Fay Weldon's story is simple and easy to follow. It is focused on actions and the main character’s thoughts, as the narration is limited to what Martha knows or finds out.

You can find the full analysis of “Weekend” by Fay Weldon in what follows!