“Carrie”

"Carrie" is a debut novel by Stephen King, published in 1974. It tells the story of Carrie White, a
high school student who possesses telekinetic powers and becomes a target of bullying. As a
work of horror fiction, "Carrie" explores themes of isolation, revenge, religious fanaticism, and
the destructive power of unchecked emotions. The novel has been analyzed and critiqued from
various literary perspectives, including feminist criticism, psychoanalytic criticism, and
sociopolitical criticism.

1. Feminist Criticism: One prominent aspect of feminist criticism applied to "Carrie" is the
examination of gender roles and the portrayal of female characters. Carrie's experiences
highlight the oppression and victimization of women in a patriarchal society. The novel
explores the consequences of the restrictive gender expectations placed upon women,
particularly through Carrie's repressive religious upbringing and her mother's abusive
behavior. Additionally, "Carrie" delves into the themes of female power and the dangers
of repressed female sexuality.

2. Psychoanalytic Criticism: Psychoanalytic criticism focuses on the psychological

motivations and subconscious desires of the characters. In "Carrie," Carrie's telekinetic
abilities can be interpreted as a manifestation of her suppressed anger, trauma, and
repressed emotions. The novel delves into her psyche, exploring her struggle to control
her powers and her eventual descent into violence. Psychoanalytic critics might analyze
Carrie's relationship with her mother and the Oedipal dynamics at play.

3. Sociopolitical Criticism: From a sociopolitical perspective, "Carrie" can be seen as a

commentary on the oppressive nature of societal structures and institutions. The novel
critiques the influence of religion, depicting it as a tool of control and manipulation. It
also explores the damaging effects of bullying and the ways in which individuals can be
marginalized and dehumanized by their peers. "Carrie" addresses social issues such as the
abuse of power, the dangers of conformity, and the consequences of societal neglect.

Overall, "Carrie" has been subject to diverse literary criticisms due to its exploration of complex
themes and its psychological depth. Through its portrayal of a troubled protagonist and its
examination of societal and psychological pressures, the novel continues to provoke analysis and
discussion among scholars and readers alike.