Unfurrowed Fields

"Unfurrowed Fields: A Josephite Story NSW 1872-1972" by Kathleen E. Burford is a historical study focusing on the Sisters of St Joseph in New South Wales, Australia, from 1872 to 1972. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Historical Context: The book provides a detailed historical context of the Sisters of St Joseph, examining their lives, roles, and contributions within the Tasmanian Catholic Church.
2. Biographical Approach: Burford uses biographical studies to reconstruct the lives of individual Sisters, highlighting the intersection of political, social, and economic factors with their personal experiences.
3. Interpretive History: The study acknowledges the interpretive nature of historical research, recognizing the researcher's bias and the importance of reflexivity in historical analysis.
4. Spirituality and Formation: The book explores the spirituality and ongoing formation of the Sisters, including their initial and ongoing education and their dependence on cofounder Fr Julian Tenison Woods for guidance.
5. Social Context: It examines the social context into which the Sisters were placed, including their interaction with parents and children, and their self-understanding as being one with the people.

Plot Summary

The book delves into the lives of five Sisters who arrived in Westbury, Tasmania, and their experiences within the community. It covers their initial inexperience in religious life, their dependence on Fr Julian Tenison Woods for interpretation of the Rule and guidance, and their perception of their task. The study also looks at the influence of Mother Mary MacKillop and the prevailing conditions within Tasmania that shaped the Sisters' lives.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of "Unfurrowed Fields" by Kathleen E. Burford are not readily available in the search results, the book's approach to historical research and its focus on biographical studies are generally recognized as valuable contributions to the field of interpretive history. The use of biographical studies to understand historical forces and the emphasis on reflexivity in historical analysis are particularly noted for their methodological rigor and insight.

The study's thematic approach, which considers the influence of key figures like Mother Mary MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods, is also praised for providing a comprehensive understanding of the Sisters' lives and their role within the community. The book's ability to minimize potential bias through the researcher's personal knowledge and sensitivity to the process is highlighted as a strength in historical research.

In summary, "Unfurrowed Fields" offers a rich and detailed exploration of the lives of the Sisters of St Joseph in New South Wales, Australia, from 1872 to 1972, making it a significant contribution to historical studies and biographical research.