Power Relations in Literature

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how in "Jane Eyre" and "Wide Sargasso Sea", both authors raise the issues of power relations and the reversal thereof. It looks at how, along with the notions of feminism they follow the subject of other discrimination and colonization and how race, class and gender are intertwined in the lives of both novels' characters.

From the Paper:

"Both authors assess the spiritual and emotional growth of a different heroine in the same time frame. The main character, Antoinette, in Wide Sargasso Sea does not resemble Jane Eyre, but both women match their determination for female independence. Jane Eyre is a young poor woman, whose social position is inferior. Her prospects are bleak as she belongs to a lower class, making it unlikely for her to prosper or gain wealth. Antoinette is a product of colonialism, and although wealthy, her position is to be destroyed at the hands of imperialism, male superiority and mastery. Both women show obstinacy and authority over their own experiences and destination. Jane is never intimidated by Rochester, and she is clearly equal to him in intellect."

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