Identity

Definition

Identity refers to the qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group unique. It encompasses how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others, which can be influenced by various factors such as culture, social class, and personal experiences. In literature, identity often plays a central role in character development and thematic exploration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Victorian literature, the exploration of identity often reflects the societal norms and restrictions of the time, particularly regarding gender and class distinctions.
2. Wilkie Collins' sensation novels frequently present characters whose identities are shaped by secrets and societal expectations, creating tension and conflict.
3. Stream of consciousness techniques reveal the inner thoughts and complexities of characters, showcasing the fluidity and multifaceted nature of identity.
4. Salman Rushdie's magical realism intertwines personal and cultural identities, reflecting post-colonial themes and the search for self in a fragmented world.
5. Jeanette Winterson employs experimental narrative techniques to challenge conventional notions of identity, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Review Questions

• How does Victorian literature use the theme of identity to reflect societal norms of its time?
  • Victorian literature often portrays identity through characters who struggle with societal expectations regarding gender roles and class. For example, women frequently confront limitations imposed by society, leading to internal conflicts as they seek to define themselves beyond these constraints. This exploration highlights the tension between individual desires and societal norms, revealing how identity is often shaped by external forces.
• In what ways do the sensation novels of Wilkie Collins complicate the understanding of identity for their characters?
  • Wilkie Collins' sensation novels complicate identity by placing characters in situations where their true selves are hidden behind secrets or societal facades. Characters often grapple with dual identities—one that is socially acceptable and another that is authentic but concealed. This tension creates suspense and invites readers to question the reliability of perception, ultimately suggesting that identity can be multifaceted and fluid.
• Evaluate how contemporary British fiction's exploration of identity reflects broader societal changes in the 21st century.
  • Contemporary British fiction explores identity by addressing themes like multiculturalism, gender fluidity, and technological influence on self-perception. As society becomes more diverse and interconnected, narratives often focus on hybrid identities shaped by cultural exchanges and personal experiences. Authors are increasingly challenging traditional narratives by presenting complex characters who navigate multiple identities, reflecting a more nuanced understanding of self in an evolving global landscape.

Related terms

Self-perception: The way an individual views their own character and personality, which influences their actions and interactions with others.

Cultural Identity: The identity or feeling of belonging to a group based on culture, ethnicity, or shared experiences that shape an individual's worldview.

Narrative Voice:

The perspective or voice from which a story is told, which can shape the reader's understanding of a character's identity and motivations.