Tara Westover’s memoir, “Educated,” has captivated and shocked readers around the world with her harrowing story of growing up in a survivalist family in rural Idaho. However, much of the attention has been focused on the abuse she suffered at the hands of her brother, Shawn. But what about her parents?
Tara’s parents, Gene and Faye Westover, were devout Mormons who believed in self-sufficiency and isolationism. They didn’t trust the government or modern medicine and instead relied on herbal remedies and essential oils to treat illnesses. They also refused to enroll their children in school, believing that public education would corrupt their minds.
As a result, Tara and her siblings were homeschooled, but the education they received was minimal and often inaccurate. They were taught to read and write, but little else. Tara’s father, a scrapyard owner, also put his children to work in the family business from a young age, leaving little time for anything else.
Tara’s parents were also physically and emotionally abusive. Her father was prone to fits of rage, and her mother was complicit in the abuse, often standing by as her husband beat their children. Tara’s parents also refused to seek medical attention for injuries or illnesses, even when they were serious.
Despite the abuse and neglect she suffered, Tara has expressed some sympathy for her parents. She has said that they were victims of their own upbringing and beliefs, and that they genuinely believed they were dong what was best for their children.
However, Tara’s parents have not been supportive of her memoir. They have disputed many of the events she describes in the book and have accused her of lying and exaggerating. They have also refused to speak to her or acknowledge her success.
Tara Westover’s parents played a significant role in her upbringing, but it was not a positive one. Their extreme beliefs and abusive behavior had a lasting impact on Tara and her siblings. While Tara has tried to understand and forgive her parents, they have not been willing to do the same for her.
Does Tara Westover Still See Her Family?
According to her own statements, Tara Westover remains estranged from about half of her family, including her parents. She has not mentioned any recent attempts at reconciliation or contact with them. It should be noted that while some individuals may prioritize reconciliation with their families, this may not be the case for everyone, and each situation is unique.
What Happened To Shawn Westover In Educated?
Shawn Westover is a character in the memoir “Educated” by Tara Westover. Throughout the book, he is depicted as a violent and threatening individual. It is suggested that his behavior may be a result of a traumatic brain injury he suffered or possibly inherited mental illness from his father. Shawn’s erratic behavior seems to intensify after his injury, leading to a more aggressive and dangerous presence in the memoir.
What Did Tara Westover’s Family Think Of Her Book?
Tara Westover’s family was reportedly upset by the publication of her book and disputed much of what was written about them. They were not in agreement with the story being told and expressed their dissatisfaction with it. The family’s reaction to the book was negative and they did not support its publication.
What Religion Was Tara Westover’s Family?
Tara Westover’s family was of the Mormon faith. She was born in Clifton, Idaho, which had a population of 259. Her parents were survivalists who followed the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Westover was the youngest of seven children and grew up in a strict and isolated environment, where her education was limited and medical care was avoided. The family’s beliefs and practices were heavily influenced by teir interpretation of the Mormon faith, which emphasized self-reliance and preparation for the end of the world. Despite the challenges she faced, Westover eventually went on to earn a PhD from Cambridge University and wrote a memoir about her experiences entitled “Educated.”
Conclusion
Tara Westover’s parents have been portrayed as religiously devout, but also as extremist survivalists who subjected their children to physical and emotional abuse. While they may have had good intentions in wanting to live off the grid, their isolation from mainstream society and rejection of formal education had negative consequences, particularly for Tara and her siblings. The memoir, “Educated,” has shed light on the damaging effects of such extreme ideologies and practices, and has sparked discussions abot the importance of education and critical thinking in our society. While it is understandable that Westover’s family may dispute some of the events depicted in the book, it is important to acknowledge the validity of Westover’s experiences and the importance of sharing such stories in the hopes of preventing similar situations from occurring in the future.
