In Larkrise to Candleford why does Laura say mar and par instead of ma pa?

Laura, in "Larkrise to Candleford" by Flora Thompson, uses "mar" and "par" instead of "ma" and "pa" because it is a dialectal variation common in certain parts of rural England.

This usage reflects the specific regional dialect spoken in Oxfordshire, where the novel is set.

Here's why:

* Regional Pronunciation: The "mar" and "par" pronunciation is a characteristic of the Oxfordshire dialect, reflecting a historical shift in vowel sounds.

* Social Class: The use of "mar" and "par" can also be associated with a specific social class. In the context of the novel, Laura's family belongs to a working-class rural community, and their dialect reflects this background.

* Authenticity: Thompson meticulously uses dialect to create a vivid and authentic portrayal of rural life in early 20th century England.

So, Laura's use of "mar" and "par" is not just a quirk of her speech but a deliberate linguistic choice by the author to add realism and depth to the story. It helps us understand the specific time and place of the novel and the characters who inhabit it.