The portrayal of the Repercussions of Trauma and Depression in Literature and Popular Culture in Reference to Sylvia Plath’s Novel the Bell Jar
Sneha V John
Sneha V John, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-university), Bangalore. (Karnataka), India.
Manuscript received on 15 February 2023 | Revised Manuscript received on 12 March 2023 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 March 2023 | Manuscript published on 15 November 2023 | PP: 16-19 | Volume-2 Issue-3 March 2023 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijssl.C1055061422 | DOI: 10.54105/ijssl.C1055.032323
Open Access | Ethics and Policies | Cite | Zenodo | Indexing and Abstracting
© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: This paper explores the representation of trauma and depression in popular culture and literature, with a focus on Sylvia Plath’s novel, “The Bell Jar.” The study delves into the portrayal of traumatic experiences and their psychological impact, drawing on trauma theory in literature—an interdisciplinary field incorporating psychology, sociology, and cultural studies. Addressing the evolving societal discourse on trauma and depression, the paper examines how literature, film, music, and television contribute to a more open discussion of these once-taboo subjects. It emphasizes trauma’s diverse forms, ranging from explicit events like war and abuse to subtler forms such as neglect. The universality of trauma is explored, demonstrating its lasting effects on mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. In particular, the research focuses on trauma theory in literature, analyzing how authors use their works to shed light on human experiences and social issues. The narrative techniques employed, such as flashbacks and symbolism, provide nuanced representations of the complex effects of trauma. Moreover, the paper considers the role of characters who have experienced trauma in shaping narratives and exploring psychological effects like depression and anxiety. Sylvia Plath serves as a key case study, with a detailed exploration of her life and works. Born in 1932, Plath’s writing is characterized by its darkness, intensity, and confessional nature, reflecting her personal struggles, including the death of her father and her battles with mental health. Her novel, “The Bell Jar,” published in 1963, is a focal point for examining the profound impact of trauma on an individual’s life. This research contributes to the broader field of trauma theory in literature, offering insights into how writers and readers engage with traumatic experiences, emphasizing the importance of cultural and historical contexts. Ultimately, the study enhances our understanding of the human experience through the lens of trauma and depression in literature.
Keywords: Literature, Popular Culture, Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar, Trauma Theory, Mental Health
Scop on the Article: Resent Engineering and Nano Technology