In Lerner\u2019s \u201cThe Grocer and the Chief,\u201d it is clear through his description of Balgat\u2019s transcendence into modernity that he adheres to a common perception of progress, as he writes about the both the literal and societal improvements that have come to Balgat over the past four years. Tangible improvements like a main road, electricity, and a new water pipe (51) compliment the villagers\u2019 increasing awareness and involvement in a greater society, as Lerner writes, \u201cthe villagers were getting out of their holes at last\u201d (51). In addition to the technological improvements from which the villagers of Balgat have benefitted, changes in beliefs had also become present. With the modernization, the Chief recalls how Democrats came and got elected to power: \u201ctimes have been good with us here. We are all Democrat party in Balgat now\u201d (52). This is a clear indication of Balgat\u2019s progression into the modern world, as many of the villagers have departed from the sheltered views that they once lived by. As the Chief recalls on his time as Muhtar, he has his reservations and concerns but ultimately says, \u201cI am the last Muhtar of Balgat, and I am happy that I have seen Balgat end its history in this way that we are going\u201d (55). This shows the Chief\u2019s increased awareness, as he recognizes that his role in Balgat\u2019s journey in to social modernity is one of decreased authority. Overall, the town\u2019s modernized atmosphere has brought remarkable and multidimensional change to what was once an isolated village, and in doing so has connected both it and its villagers to Greater Ankara and the world. Even though Balgat has become more aligned with both what Lerner would classify as progress and the lifestyle of the western world, the new opportunities and resources that have been given to the villagers of Balgat have given much more benefit than cause for concern.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In Lerner\u2019s \u201cThe Grocer and the Chief,\u201d it is clear through his description of Balgat\u2019s transcendence into modernity that he adheres to a common perception of progress, as he writes about the both the literal and societal improvements that have … Continue reading