November 28, 2023

Presentation on The Influence of Italian Renaissance on English Literature



On 9th Nov 2023, I presented my semester 1 presentation for Paper no. 105 - History of English Literature. My topic was “The Influence of Italian Renaissance on English Literature”. 



Presentation - 



You can check out my presentation here:- 



Click here if the embeded video does not work - Presentation 105



Presentation on Exploring Portrayals of Women in ‘Hard Times’ and ‘Jude The Obscure’



On 8th Nov 2023, I presented my semester 1 presentation for Paper no. 104 - Literature of the Victorians. My topic was “Exploring Portrayals of Women in ‘Hard Times’ and ‘Jude The Obscure’”. 




Presentation - 



You can check out my presentation here:- 



Click here if the embeded video does not work - Presentation  104


Presentation on ‘Frankenstein’ and How its Adapted On-Screen



On 1st Nov 2023, I presented my semester 1 presentation for Paper no. 103 - Literature of the Romantics. My topic was “‘Frankenstein’ and How its Adapted On-Screen”. 


Presentation - 




You can check out my presentation here:- 



Click here if the embeded video does not work - Presentation  103


Presentation on Stockholm Syndrome and How It’s Presented in Literature and Movies



On 31st Oct 2023, I presented my semester 1 presentation for Paper no. 102 - Literature of the Neo classical Period. My topic was “Stockholm Syndrome and How It’s Presented in Literature and Movies”. 


Presentation -  




You can check out my presentation here:- 




Click here if the embeded video does not work - Presentation  102



Presentation on The Art of Satire: Dryden vs Swift

 




On 30th Oct 2023, I presented my semester 1 presentation for Paper no. 101 - Literature of the Elizabethan and Restoration Periods. My topic was “The Art of Satire: Dryden vs Swift”. 


Presentation:- 




You can watch my presentation here:- 



Click here if the embeded video does not work - Presentation  101




November 27, 2023

Class, Love, and Independence: A Comparative Analysis of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘Jane Eyre’ (Assignment - 103)

Class, Love, and Independence: A Comparative Analysis of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘Jane Eyre’


Table of contents 

  • Personal Information 

  • Assignment Details 

  • Abstract 

  • Keywords 

  • Introduction 

  • Representation of Female Protagonist 

  • Depiction of Romance and Relationships

  • Social Class and Its Impact  

  • Conclusion 

  • References 


Personal Information 

Name - Bhumiba Gohil 

Batch - M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment Number - 5108230016

Email Address - bhumibagohil333@gmail.com 

Roll Number - 4

 

Assignment Details 

Topic - Class, Love, and Independence: A Comparative Analysis of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘Jane Eyre’ 

Paper -Literature of the Romantics

Paper Number - 103

Subject Code - 22394

Submitted to - Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U.

Date of Submission - 1 December 2023


Abstract 

This assignment undertakes a comparative exploration of “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen and “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte, focusing on the representation of female protagonists, the portrayal of romantic relationships, and the impact of social class within the narratives. Through a detailed analysis, this study delves into the multifaceted dimensions of Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre as strong-willed heroines navigating their societal landscapes. It examines their agency, resilience, and negotiation of societal expectations while unraveling the complexities of their respective romantic pursuits.  


Key Words 

Female Protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, Jane Eyre, Romantic Relationships, Social Class, Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte. 


Introduction 

In the realm of classic literature, the works of Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte stand as timeless testaments to the intricacies of human relationships, societal norms, and the indomitable spirit of their female protagonists. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen and "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte offer captivating narratives that resonate through time, illuminating the lives of women navigating complex social landscapes in the early 19th century. This comparative analysis seeks to delve into the representation of female protagonists, the portrayal of romantic relationships, and the influence of social class on their lives.


Before we begin our comparisons, it is necessary to briefly introduce both the novels. 


Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen 

Pride and Prejudice, published in 1813, is a timeless classic by Jane Austen, one of the most celebrated novelists of all time. Set in the genteel society of 19th-century England, the novel follows the Bennet sisters, particularly Elizabeth, as they navigate the complexities of love, marriage, and social expectations.

Pride and Prejudice is a captivating tale of love, pride, and prejudice, exploring the clash between personal desires and societal expectations. Elizabeth Bennet, the spirited and intelligent protagonist, challenges the norms of her time, defying societal pressures and pursuing a love match based on mutual respect and understanding. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its relatable characters, its insightful commentary on human nature, and its enduring themes of love, marriage, and social class. 

(Austen)


Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte 

Jane Eyre, published in 1847, is a captivating novel by Charlotte Bronte, an English novelist renowned for her powerful and introspective storytelling. Set in mid-19th-century England, the novel follows the extraordinary life of Jane Eyre, an independent and spirited young woman who defies societal constraints and pursues a life true to herself.

Jane Eyre is a remarkable tale of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Jane's journey from a mistreated orphan to an independent and self-respecting woman is a testament to her strength of character and her unwavering belief in herself. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its relatable protagonist, its exploration of universal human emotions, and its enduring themes of love, independence, and the search for self-worth. 

(Brontë)


Representation of Female Protagonist 

Let us begin by analyzing Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre, two of literature's most beloved heroines. While both characters possess intelligence, wit, and a strong sense of self, their journeys and the societal constraints they face differ significantly.

Elizabeth Bennet: A Spirited Rebel in a Confining Society


Elizabeth Bennet is a witty, independent-minded young woman who challenges the rigid social norms of 19th-century England. Despite her father's financial concerns and the pressures to marry within her social class, Elizabeth refuses to be bound by societal expectations. Her development is marked by a gradual transformation from initial prejudice and misjudgment to a more mature and discerning perspective. She learns to see beyond superficial appearances and recognize the true worth of individuals, particularly Mr. Darcy, whose arrogance she initially misinterprets.

Elizabeth's agency is evident in her refusal to be swayed by societal pressures or the opinions of others. She is not afraid to speak her mind, even when it contradicts the prevailing social norms. Her independent spirit allows her to make choices based on her own judgment, rather than conforming to expectations.

Jane Eyre: A Determined Survivor in a Sexist Society


Jane Eyre is a determined and resilient young woman who fights for her independence and self-worth in a society that often subordinates women. Despite facing numerous hardships, including neglect, abuse, and societal prejudices, Jane never loses sight of her personal integrity and her desire for a life free from constraints. Her development is marked by a gradual process of self-discovery and empowerment. She learns to question the societal norms that limit her opportunities and to assert her own identity. Her journey is one of overcoming obstacles and pursuing a life of truth, love, and personal fulfillment.

Jane's independence is evident in her refusal to accept the limitations imposed upon her by social expectations. She challenges societal norms regarding women's education, employment, and marriage. Her determination to chart her own course and define her own happiness sets her apart from the societal norms of her time.

Societal Constraints and the Pursuit of Personal Fulfillment

Both Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre face significant societal constraints that limit their freedom and agency. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth is bound by the expectation of marrying within her social class and securing a financially stable future. She is also subject to the prevailing social norms that dictate women's roles and expectations. In Jane Eyre, Jane faces the harsh realities of 19th-century society, where women are often considered property and their worth is determined by their social status and marital prospects. She must navigate a world where her intelligence and independence are often met with skepticism and disapproval.

Despite these constraints, both Elizabeth and Jane demonstrate remarkable resilience and determination in their pursuit of personal fulfillment. They challenge societal norms, assert their independence, and refuse to be defined by the expectations of others. Their journeys serve as powerful examples of female empowerment and the pursuit of self-determination.


Depiction of Romance and Relationship 

The themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations are intertwined in both Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre, shaping the characters' journeys and their pursuit of personal fulfillment. The romantic relationships of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy and Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester serve as central examples of how these themes are explored.

Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's relationship is a classic tale of overcoming prejudice and societal expectations to find true love. Their initial misunderstandings and mutual pride stem from the rigid social norms of 19th-century England. Elizabeth's initial dislike of Mr. Darcy is based on his perceived arrogance, while Mr. Darcy's pride leads him to misjudge Elizabeth's character. Over time, their perceptions of each other shift as they gain a deeper understanding of one another's true nature. Elizabeth learns to see beyond Mr. Darcy's aloof exterior and recognizes his underlying kindness and integrity, while Mr. Darcy comes to appreciate Elizabeth's wit, intelligence, and independent spirit.

Their relationship challenges the societal expectations of their time, as they transcend the boundaries of class and social status. Their love is based on mutual respect, admiration, and a shared understanding of the importance of personal integrity. Ultimately, they overcome the obstacles imposed by society and find happiness in their union.

Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester's relationship is a complex and unconventional exploration of love, self-respect, and societal constraints. Their bond is forged through shared experiences, mutual understanding, and a deep respect for each other's intelligence and independence. However, their relationship is challenged by significant societal obstacles, including Mr. Rochester's hidden marriage and the stark disparity in their social class. Jane's unwavering sense of self-worth and her refusal to compromise her principles prevent her from accepting a life of subjugation or societal acceptance at the expense of her personal integrity.

Their love story is a testament to the power of self-respect and the importance of pursuing a love that does not compromise one's individuality. Jane's assertion of her own worth and her refusal to be defined by societal expectations ultimately lead her to a relationship that is built on mutual respect and shared values.

In both Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre, class and social norms play a significant role in shaping the romantic relationships and the challenges faced by the characters. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy must overcome the societal barriers of class and social status, while Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester must navigate the complexities of their unequal social positions and the constraints imposed upon women in their society. Personal integrity is a central theme in both novels, as the characters must grapple with the choice between societal acceptance and personal fulfillment. Elizabeth and Jane's refusal to compromise their principles and their pursuit of love based on mutual respect and understanding set them apart from the societal norms of their time.



Social Class and Its Impact

Social class plays a pervasive and transformative role in the lives and relationships of Elizabeth and Jane. The rigid social hierarchy of 19th-century England dictates the characters' opportunities, expectations, and the very fabric of their relationships.

In Pride and Prejudice, social class is a rigid and defining aspect. The Bennet family's modest gentry status significantly impacts their lives, particularly the Bennet sisters' prospects for marriage. The expectation of marrying within their social class and securing financial stability weighs heavily on the Bennet women, influencing their interactions with potential suitors. Elizabeth Bennet's initial dislike of Mr. Darcy stems from his perceived arrogance and aloofness, which she attributes to his wealth and social standing. Mr. Darcy's initial assessment of Elizabeth is also influenced by his own class consciousness and the societal expectations placed upon him.

Over time, as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy overcome their initial prejudices and develop a deeper understanding of each other, their relationship challenges the rigid social norms of their time. Their love transcends the boundaries of class and status, demonstrating that true connection and mutual respect can exist regardless of societal expectations.

In Jane Eyre, social class is a stark and oppressive force that shapes the protagonist's life from childhood to adulthood. Jane's impoverished background and lack of social status leave her vulnerable to exploitation and mistreatment. Her experiences at Lowood Institution, where she is subjected to harsh treatment and emotional abuse, highlight the stark inequalities between the wealthy and the underprivileged. Jane's determination to rise above her circumstances and pursue a life of self-worth and independence is a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.

Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester, a wealthy and powerful man, is complicated by the disparity in their social positions. Mr. Rochester's initial attempts to assert his dominance over Jane stem from his ingrained sense of entitlement and the societal norms that reinforce male authority. Jane's refusal to be subjugated or treated as inferior, despite her lower social status, challenges the prevailing power dynamics of their time. Her insistence on mutual respect and equality is a powerful assertion of female empowerment and the pursuit of self-determination.


Conclusion

In the convergence of "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen and "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte, the enduring resonance of these literary masterpieces lies in their poignant portrayal of female protagonists, the complexities of romantic relationships, and the pervasive influence of social class on personal destinies. Through the unwavering spirits of Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre, Austen and Bronte weave narratives that transcend time, inviting readers to traverse worlds shaped by societal expectations, individual aspirations, and the intricacies of love and societal norms.


In the interplay between Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre, their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering spirits, these literary works endure as beacons of inspiration, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human existence, the pursuit of personal fulfillment, and the timeless quest for autonomy in a world defined by societal expectations.


References


Austen, Jane. Emma. Edited by George Justice, W. W. Norton & Company, 2012.


Bossche, Chris R. Vanden. “What Did ‘Jane Eyre’ Do? Ideology, Agency, Class and the Novel.” Narrative, vol. 13, no. 1, 2005, pp. 46–66. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/20107362. Accessed 30 Nov. 2023.


Brontë, Charlotte. Jane Eyre. Edited by Richard J. Dunn, Norton Critical Edition, W. W. Norton & Company, 2001.


Weinsheimer, Joel. “Chance and the Hierarchy of Marriages in Pride and Prejudice.” ELH, vol. 39, no. 3, 1972, pp. 404–19. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/2872192. Accessed 30 Nov. 2023.



Words - 2126

Images - 3



Breaking Boundaries: Feminist Characters Across English Literary Ages (Assignment - 105)

 Breaking Boundaries: Feminist Characters Across English Literary Ages

Table of contents 

  • Personal Information 

  • Assignment Details 

  • Abstract 

  • Keywords 

  • Introduction 

  • Historical Context

  • The Wife of Bath as a Feminist Icon 

  • Rebel of Restoration Age - Helena 

  • The Unconventional Emma Woodhouse 

  • Sue Bridehead: The New Woman 

  • Conclusion 

  • References 


Personal Information 

Name - Bhumiba Gohil 

Batch - M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment Number - 5108230016

Email Address - bhumibagohil333@gmail.com 

Roll Number - 4

 

Assignment Details 

Topic - Breaking Boundaries: Feminist Characters Across English Literary Ages 

Paper - History of English Literature - From 1350 to 1900

Paper Number - 105

Subject Code - 22396

Submitted to - Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U.

Date of Submission - 1 December 2023


Abstract 

This paper explores the evolution of feminist characters across various English literary ages. By analyzing representative works from different periods, it examines how female protagonists have challenged societal norms, stereotypes, and limitations imposed on women. The study delves into the empowering portrayal of these characters, highlighting their resilience, agency, and transformative impact within their respective historical and cultural contexts. Through a comparative analysis, this paper seeks to illuminate the continuity and progression of feminist ideologies, shedding light on the enduring relevance and evolution of feminist representation in English literature.


Keywords 

Feminism, Wife of Bath, Sue Bridehead, Emma Woodhouse, Helena, The Rover, Literary Ages. 


Introduction 

In today’s world, we admire writers like Margaret Atwood and characters like Katniss Everdeen for their revolutionizing feminist ideas. However, Female characters have pushed the limits of conventional gender roles and questioned society conventions and expectations throughout the history of English literature. These literary heroines have cleared the path for a more complex and varied portrayal of women in literature. In this assignment, we will examine four such bold characters from four different ages of English Literature. We will see in detail The Wife of Bath from the Middle Ages, Aphra Bhen’s Helena, Rebel of the Romantic age Emma Woodhouse and The New Woman Sue Bridehead. 


Historical Context 

Before we begin the exploration of dynamic female characters, it is necessary to understand the time of their works. So here I will briefly discuss the four ages. 


Age of Chaucer: 


The age of Chaucer is considered to be a period of transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Chaucer lived during the latter part of the 14th century, a tumultuous time in England. The Hundred Years War with France was still raging and England experienced political upheaval, plague, and peasant rebellions. However, this was also a period of emerging commerce, growth of towns and cities, rise of vernacular literature, and early humanist ideas. Chaucer is best known for The Canterbury Tales, his collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims journeying to Canterbury cathedral. From this work, we find the first feminist character that we will examine. The Wife of Bath is one of the pilgrims and tells the story of a knight who has to find out what women truly want. 


Restoration Age 


The Restoration Age spans from 1660 to about 1688 and gets its name from the restoration of the monarchy when Charles II was restored to the throne after the collapse of the Puritan Commonwealth. This was a period of sweeping intellectual change as the monarch and patrons encouraged art, architecture, literature and scientific inquiry after the austere years of Puritan rule. As the theaters reopened after being closed during the English Interregnum, there was an explosion in literary output. In this age we find the first female professional writer Aphra Behn. Our second character is Helena from Behn’s play “The Rover”. 


Romantic Age 


The Romantic Age is usually taken to span the years from the 1770s to the 1830s. It was a period of political turmoil in Britain due to the ongoing Napoleonic Wars as well as profound shifts caused by the Industrial Revolution. As a reaction against the scientific rationalism and classicism of the Enlightenment, Romanticism celebrated a return to emotion, imagination, and spirituality in art and literature. The poets were drawn to the beauty and sublimity of nature as a means to access deeper truths about human existence. Major writers of this age include William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, John Keats. Female Romantic writers like Dorothy Wordsworth, Mary Shelley, and Jane Austen also made significant contributions. In this assignment we will examine Jane Austen’s unconventional heroine Emma Woodhouse from the novel “Emma”. 


Victorian Age 


The Victorian Age in literature refers to the years 1837-1901 and covers the reign of Queen Victoria in England. This was a long period of prosperity for British society with growing economic development and political reform alongside rigid social norms. While the pre-Victorian writers brought realism, these writers infused it with sentimentality, estrangement and psychological depth in their works. Through their writing, Victorian authors explored social reforms and ideological upheavals in a rapidly changing society. Their collective contributions established widely influential aesthetic techniques for the modern realist novel. From this period, we shall examine Sue Bridehead, the bold character of Thomas Hardy. She is one of the protagonists in “Jude the Obscure”. 


Now, let us begin the exploration of these characters. 

(Albert)


The Wife of Bath as a Feminist Icon 




The Wife of Bath, Alison, from Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales emerges as a feminist icon centuries ahead of her time. Some critics even consider her the first ever feminist character. Through her prologue and tale, Alison articulates and subverts the strict expectations imposed on medieval women in a male-dominated society. In many ways, Alison defies the archetypes that confined women in medieval times to subordinate, passive roles centered around marriage, childbearing and unwavering obedience to husbands. She recounts stories of her five marriages, using her sexuality to gain "sovereignty" over her husbands. 


The Wife of Bath also challenges religious double standards that allowed men like King Solomon to have numerous wives, while viewing sexually-assertive women as wicked. With her interpretation of scripture framed through her personal experience, Alison questions why remarriage should be forbidden for women but permissible for men. This bold challenge to biblical authority would have shocked medieval society.  


Through the tale she shares of an elderly hag magically restored to youth and beauty on condition that her knight husband grants her authority, the Wife of Bath imagines a world where women are no longer subject to men, but hold positions of dominance in marriage with the final say on decision-making. The old hag uses her supernatural powers to force the knight to understand female desire for "sovereignty" before she rewards him by becoming the ideal wife on her own terms.


While some critics view Alison’s manipulation of marriage for her own ends as anti-feminist, she challenged the assumption that women must be obedient, soft-spoken and sexually reticent in order to be respected. The Wife of Bath ultimately represents how resourceful medieval women had to maneuver within a system stacked against them to exert agency and independence. Through her disregard for rules governing femininity, the unforgettable character of the Wife of Bath in The Canterbury Tales emerges as a surprisingly modern champion of female empowerment and sexual freedom.

(Chaucer) (Aubry)

Rebel of Restoration Age - Helena 




Before we discuss Helena as a feminist character, we have to acknowledge her author, Aphra Behn. Aphra Behn is often regarded as an early feminist icon. In the 17th century, she defied societal norms by becoming one of the first English women to earn a living through writing. She challenged gender stereotypes in her works, advocating for women's rights and critiquing the societal constraints imposed on them. While the term "feminist" might not have existed in her era, Aphra Behn's advocacy for women's rights, her portrayal of complex female characters, and her defiance of societal norms undoubtedly contributed to the advancement of feminist ideals.


In her play, "The Rover" she depicted strong, independent female characters who asserted their desires and challenged traditional roles. One such character is Helena who challenges the notion of passive femininity and presents a woman who actively shapes her fate. Helena takes actions that challenge patriarchal norms and demonstrate female empowerment. She defiantly rejects the fate her brother has chosen for her (becoming a nun) and asserts her right to choose her own path, insisting on her independence. This shows her rebelling against male authority over her life. 


She makes the most of the carnival atmosphere, where masks and costumes grant anonymity, to exercise freedoms not otherwise available to women. Her escapades exhibit adventurousness. She also takes an active role in pursuing a romance with Willmore, donning a disguise to meet him at the carnival. Rather than passively waiting to be courted, she goes after what she wants. She intelligently engages in witty repartee with Willmore, showing she is his intellectual equal. Their battle of wits displays her mental acuity. This demonstrates confidence and defiance of expectations for feminine behavior. 


Helena seizes control over her own life, prioritizing her own desires above external pressures to conform to conventions for women. Her determination, outspokenness, and resistance to male dominance mark her as an early feminist protagonist.

(Behn) (Arifa)


The Unconventional Emma Woodhouse 



At the time when Jane Austen was writing her novels, she wasn’t even allowed to claim them as her own. In those restrictive times Austen’s Emma Woodhouse, shines as a unique character who embodies both patriarchal and early feminist values. She represents a transition towards more progressive gender roles in society. Let us explore her character in detail. 


Emma benefits from patriarchy due to her privileged social status, yet also defies conventions through her outspoken nature and decision not to marry. Due to her privilege, she has no reason to marry. She enjoys a certain kind of freedom that not every lady of her time could enjoy. In her own words she says: “Fortune I do not want; employment I do not want; consequence I do not want; I believe few married women are half as much mistress of their husband’s house as I am of Hartfield.

At a time when education for women was often limited, Emma is well-read and intellectually curious. She values education and intellect, and she is not afraid to engage in discussions on a variety of topics. Emma's embrace of education is a sign of her desire for personal independence and intellectual fulfillment. She is not content to be a passive ornament; she wants to engage with the world and make her own mark. Emma advocates education for women, believing it leads to greater independence - a core tenet of Mary Wollstonecraft's feminist theory. 

Unlike other female characters who marry for social or economic reasons, Emma eventually marries for love and companionship. Her relationship with Mr Knightley evolves from friendship into a more equitable marriage than was typical at the time. On top of that the decision to live at Emma's estate Hartfield after marrying, rather than conforming to the norm of women moving into their husband's home, further symbolizes the egalitarian nature of their relationship.


So while benefiting from patriarchal privilege, Emma also voices unconventional feminist perspectives on marriage and female independence for her era. Her transformation and relationship ideals represent Austen's subtle critique of gender inequality in Regency society.

(Austen) (Boseovska)

Sue Bridehead: The New Woman 



In Thomas Hardy’s Sue we find a highly educated and opinionated character that challenges the constraints placed upon women by society. She rejects the institution of marriage and questions conventional morality, advocating for personal freedom and autonomy. Her refusal to adhere to societal norms, especially concerning marriage, motherhood, and religion, makes her a striking representation of the changing ideals and values of the late 19th century.


Sue believes in gender equality. She opposes the view of unequal position between males and females, thinking that women should be able to choose partners freely like men can. She says she has "no fear of man" and can interact "almost as one of their own sex." Sue exhibits independent and free thinking. She holds unconventional opinions, often critiquing social institutions like religion, tradition, and morality from an intellectual perspective. Jude calls her a "perfect Voltairean" for opposing marriage as a sacred institution. Sue rejects traditional gender roles and the institution of marriage. She sees marriage as leading to total self-abnegation for the woman. 


Though Sue ultimately succumbs to social pressures, for most of the novel she aspires to a liberated life based on following her own emotions and opinions without adherence to conventional rules. Her ending serves as a tragic comment on women's status in society. So while flawed and inconsistent, Sue resists and challenges gender inequality through her unconventional attitudes and outspoken defense of women's autonomy. This aligns closely with modern concepts of feminism.

(Hardy) (Shukla)


Conclusion 

In traversing the literary landscapes, a vivid tapestry of feminist characters emerges across English literary ages. These women, from distinct epochs and narratives, collectively challenge societal norms, subvert gender expectations, and assert their agency in diverse ways.


The Wife of Bath, with her unapologetic boldness and autonomy, laid a foundational precedent for feminist characters. Helen's cunning wit and strategic maneuvers echoed a spirited resistance to societal norms through her autonomy and self-determination. Austen's Emma, although embedded in her privileged social sphere, exemplifies a subtle yet impactful portrayal of feminist undertones, showcasing autonomy in her decisions and an assertive stance in defining her life's trajectory. Finally, Sue Bridehead stands as a poignant embodiment of feminist ideals within the Victorian era, embodying a fervent desire for independence, intellectual equality, and a resistance against societal conventions.


These characters, each a product of her respective time, collectively illustrate a trajectory of feminist consciousness, showcasing a continuum of defiance against gender constraints. Their voices, though separated by centuries, converge in their resolute pursuit of self-determination, autonomy, and the assertion of agency.



Works Cited


Albert, Edward. The History of English Literature. Edited by J. A. Stone, Oxford University Press, 1979

Arifa, Rahman Ghani. “Negotiating Masculine Circles: Female Agency in Aphra Behn’s Work.” Rupkatha Journal on Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities, vol. 12, no. 4, 2020, p. 9. https://rupkatha.com/V12/n4/v12n403.pdf.

Aubry, Timothy. Feminist Expression in the “Wife of Bath Prologue and Tale”. 2017, https://blogs.baruch.cuny.edu/eng4020/files/2017/05/Sample-Research-Paper-2.pdf.

Austen, Jane. Emma. Edited by James Kinsley and Terry Castle, Oxford University Press, 1995.

Behn, Aphra. The Rover. Edited by Marion Lomax, A & C Black, 1995.

Boseovska, Isabella. Emerging Feminism and Patriarchal Values in Austen’s Emma. 2022, https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1691856/FULLTEXT02.

Chaucer, Geoffrey. The Canterbury tales. Edited by Jill Mann, Penguin Publishing Group, 2005.

Hardy, Thomas. Jude the obscure. Edited by Charles Hubert Sisson, Penguin Books, 1985.

Shukla, Shikha. “Hardy’s Sue Bridehead: The concept of New Woman.” International Journal of English Literature and Social Sciences, vol. 2, no. 5, 2017. https://media.neliti.com/media/publications/239231-hardys-sue-bridehead-the-concept-of-new-6d2ff46c.pdf#page12.



Words - 2473
Images - 5

Midnight’s Children

  ‘Midnight’s Children’ by Salman Rushdie is a seminal work of postcolonial literature, blending magical realism with historical narrative. ...