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Keywords

Feminist discourse

Document Type

Research Paper

Abstract

The critical assessments of Christianity given by both Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre, particularly the commentaries on the patriarchal tradition of Christianity, further an unambiguous feminist discourse within Emily and Charlotte Bronte’s novels. This discourse is strengthened and propelled by elements of the supernatural alongside the elements of religious dissension in the texts. The two stories are parallel in the sense that the key female character struggles with the restrictions of a Christian and male-dominated society, and she attempts to take control of her own life with the resources she finds available. In both Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre and Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, the paranormal is undoubtedly among the strongest of the resources that enables the emancipation and empowerment of the leading female characters. Further, in the two novels, despite the reality of men constantly attempting to assert their power, it is the choices and actions of the female characters—sane or mad—that ultimately determine the fates of all.

Genre/Form

articles

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)

Feminism in literature; Christianity in literature

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Subjects - Names (LCNAF)

Brontë, Charlotte, 1816-1855. Jane Eyre; Brontë, Charlotte, 1816-1855--Criticism and interpretation; Brontë, Emily, 1818-1848. Wuthering heights; Brontë, Emily, 1818-1848--Criticism and interpretation

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

Type

Text

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