I Am No Angel. Struggles of Identity in Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights

Abstract

This thesis explores the pressure of identity applied on the two female main characters in Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre respectively. It argues that Gender norms, societal expectations and pressure from loved ones try to exert power over Charlotte's and Emily's characters Jane and Catherine, with focus on concepts like lived versus performed identity and the Lord/bondsman dynamic. I explore how Jane is able to preserve her identity through control of the narrative and support of like minded around her, whereas Catherine cannot establish either control or companionship with anyone close to her. As such, Catherine's identity splinters while Jane is given a fulfilling end.