Agency

Definition

Agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own choices, especially in the context of social, political, and cultural circumstances. It emphasizes the ability of characters, particularly women, to assert their autonomy and influence their destinies, challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In both novels, female protagonists demonstrate their agency by making choices that defy societal expectations, thus asserting their independence.
2. Characters like Jane Eyre and Catherine Earnshaw navigate oppressive environments, showcasing their struggle for personal autonomy against patriarchal constraints.
3. Agency is often depicted through key moments of rebellion or decision-making, highlighting the characters' desires for self-determination.
4. The exploration of agency in these works reveals the tension between individual desires and societal norms, raising questions about gender roles.
5. Through acts of defiance, both Jane and Catherine illustrate the potential for women to reshape their destinies despite external pressures.

Review Questions

• How do the actions of Jane Eyre reflect her agency within a patriarchal society?
  • Jane Eyre's actions throughout the novel reflect her strong sense of agency as she consistently makes choices that assert her independence. From leaving Gateshead to rejecting St. John Rivers' marriage proposal, Jane prioritizes her own values and desires over societal expectations. Her refusal to accept a subordinate role highlights her struggle against the limitations imposed by patriarchy and underscores her quest for self-definition.
• Discuss how Catherine Earnshaw's character embodies the theme of agency in 'Wuthering Heights' and its implications on her relationships.
  • Catherine Earnshaw embodies agency through her passionate nature and refusal to conform to societal norms. Her decision to marry Edgar Linton instead of Heathcliff, despite her deep love for him, illustrates a complex interplay between personal desire and social expectation. This choice creates a tension in her relationships, showing that while she possesses agency, it also comes with consequences that impact not only her life but also those around her.
• Evaluate the impact of agency on the narrative structure and themes in both 'Jane Eyre' and 'Wuthering Heights', particularly in relation to feminist discourse.
  • Agency significantly impacts the narrative structure and themes in both 'Jane Eyre' and 'Wuthering Heights', serving as a lens through which feminist discourse is explored. In 'Jane Eyre', Jane's journey toward self-discovery highlights the importance of personal agency in challenging patriarchal authority. Similarly, Catherine's struggles emphasize the limitations placed on women's choices within a male-dominated society. Together, these narratives critique traditional gender roles and advocate for women's empowerment, inviting readers to consider how individual agency can disrupt systemic oppression.

Related terms

Feminism: A movement advocating for women's rights and equality, aiming to challenge and change societal norms that limit women's agency.

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, leading to the subordination of women and limiting their agency within society.

Empowerment: The process of gaining freedom and power to make choices, which is crucial for individuals to exercise their agency fully.