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BASED ON CALL FOR BOOK CHAPTER

LITERATURE AND
PSYCHOLOGY
AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

Volume I
2023

Editor-in-Chief
Dr. PREM SHANKAR PANDEY
NTA-NET, GATE, SET
International Best-Selling Author
Assistant Professor, Dept. of English, HITS, India
Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Studies

Chennai • Bangalore
CLEVER FOX PUBLISHING
Chennai, India

Published by CLEVER FOX PUBLISHING 2023

Copyright © Dr. Prem Shankar Pandey 2023

All Rights Reserved.

ISBN: 978-93-56484-35-1

This book has been published with all reasonable efforts taken to make the material
error-free after the consent of the author. No part of this book shall be used, reproduced
in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the author, except in the
case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

The Author of this book is solely responsible and liable for its content including
but not limited to the views, representations, descriptions, statements, information,
opinions and references [“Content”]. The Content of this book shall not constitute
or be construed or deemed to reflect the opinion or expression of the Publisher or
Editor. Neither the Publisher nor Editor endorse or approve the Content of this book
or guarantee the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the Content published herein
and do not make any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied,
including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a
particular purpose. The Publisher and Editor shall not be liable whatsoever for any
errors, omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or
any other cause or claims for loss or damages of any kind, including without limitation,
indirect or consequential loss or damage arising out of use, inability to use, or about the
reliability, accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in this book.
 PEER-REVIEW TEAM

Editor-in-Chief
Dr. Prem Shankar Pandey
(NTA-NET, GATE, SET)
International Best-Selling Author
Assistant Professor, Dept. of English,
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Chennai, India

Editors
1. Dr. Sonal Sharma
Associate Professor
Thakur Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai, India
2. Dr. Ranjana Agarwal
Assistant Professor of English
SGSG Govt. College Nasirabad, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
3. Dr. Manju Bishnoi
Assistant Professor of English
Government P.G. College Osian, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India

Assistant Editors
1. Ms. Mahima Thakur
Assistant Professor of English
Ismail National Mahila P.G. College, Meerut, U.P., India
2. Ms. Priya Sharma
Assistant Professor of English
CS Nehru PG College Hardoi, UP, India
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I feel immense pleasure for introducing first volume of the book

“Literature and Psychology: An Interdisciplinary Approach.” Completion
of this magnum opus has only been possible with the blessings of almighty
god who gave me vigorous strength to work hard day and night with full
dedication. I am indebted to my parents, who encouraged and helped me
at every stage of my life. I am extremely grateful to my father Sri Gauri
Shankar Pandey and Mother Smt. Pratibha Pandey who not only shown
me correct path but also always motivated me in every aspect of my life
to achieve my goal. I am also obliged to my brother Mr. Jay Shankar
Pandey and Sister-in-Law Mrs. Sangita Pandey who have always been
standing beside me in every aspect of life and motivated me in achieving
my destinies. I am always thankful to my better half, my beautiful wife
Mrs. Sarita Pandey who always assists me achieving every milestone in
my life. I am also indebted to my son Amrit and daughter Swarnika who
have sacrificed their mandatory paternal care for completion of this book,
their sacrifice is stupendous. I am also thankful to Clever Fox Publication
for brilliantly designing and publishing this book worldwide.

I am extremely thankful to all the stupendous contributors

of the chapters of this book. I am indebted to Ms. Balogun Folasade
Christina of Calvary Arrows College, Gboko, Nigeria and Ms. Azadeh
Mehrpouyan of Velayat University, Iranshahr, Iran for making this volume
an international success. I am also cordially thankful to Dr. Pinak Sankar
Bhattacharya of Baneswar Sarathibala Mahavidyalaya, WB, Dr. L.R.S.

vi
 Acknowledgements

Kalanithi and her research scholar Ms. J. Kavi Kalpana of Guru Nanak
College (Autonomous), Dr. S. Meenakshi and her research scholar Ms.
Rajeshwari S of VIT Vellore, Dr. S. Ramya and her research scholar L.
Vidhya of Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research
(Delhi University), Ms. Neethu Mary Humphry (M.A.) from the English
and Foreign Languages (EFL) University in Hyderabad, Ms. Sanjukta
Chakraborty of Adamas University, Kolkata, Ms. Karthika Singh of St.
Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Mr. Sayan Chattopadhyay
of Adamas University, Dr. Thejas Gigy Thomas of Hindustan Institute
of Technology and Science, Chennai, Dr. Pooja Mittal of Tejpal Singh
Kushal Pal Singh Memorial Degree College Muradnagar, Ghaziabad UP,
Ms. Gulista Jawed, Guest faculty of Jamshedpur women’s University,
Jharkhand, Ms Kowsalya Raji, Research Scholar of Hindustan Institute
of Technology and Science, Chennai, and Mr. Abhijit Ghosh for their
immense contribution to this volume.

I am highly thankful to the editorial and peer-review team of this

book: Dr. Ranjana Agarwal (Assistant Professor of English, SGSG Govt.
College Nasirabad, Ajmer, Rajasthan); Dr. Sonal Sharma (Associate
Professor, Thakur Institute of Management Studies and Research,
Mumbai, India); Dr. Manju Bishnoi (Assistant Professor of English,
Government P.G. College Osian, Jodhpur, Rajasthan); Ms. Mahima
Thakur (Assistant Professor of English, Ismail National Mahila P.G.
College, Meerut, U.P), and Ms. Priya Sharma (Assistant Professor of
English, CS Nehru PG College Hardoi, UP), for their extraneous efforts
in peer-review process leaving the indelible contribution in making this
venture successful. Their selfless efforts are unforgettable.

Above all, again I owe it all to almighty God for granting me the
wisdom, health and strength to undertake this task and enabling me for
its completion.
–Dr. Prem Shankar Pandey
prems6525@gmail.com

vii
 FROM THE DESK OF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

I n the world of fast emerging Science and Technology, the relevance of

Literature is at stake. However the intersection of Literature with other
disciplines, empowers its calibre and presents it as extremely interesting
area in the field of research. Now a days Literature is being analysed
from various interdisciplinary perspectives as: Philosophy, Anthropology,
Psychology, Sociology, Economic etc. Even the theories of Science can
also be applied to understand the intricacies of Literature, like Newton’s
“Three Laws of Inertia” may be applied to understand the behavioural
study of fictional characters.

This book is an attempt to guide and inspire the scholars of

Literature and Linguistics to delve themselves into interdisciplinary
studies and open new horizons of opportunities. Literature and

viii
 Acknowledgements

Psychology are two captivating fields, each with its own unique ability
to explore and illuminate the human experience. This book presents
the intricate interplay between Literature and Psychology, examining
how they inform and enrich one another, opening up new avenues of
understanding and insight.

As the editor-in-chief of this captivating collection, it is my

privilege to present the expertise of the brilliant minds and their diverse
perspectives as the contributing authors. This book showcases an array of
scholarly research, thoughtful analyses, and thought-provoking reflections
that bridge the gap between Literature and Psychology. It is a testament
to the collaborative effort and dedication of all those involved.

In this book, we embark on a journey that unravels the profound

connections between the written word and the workings of the human
psyche. From the exploration of characters and their psychological depths
to the examination of literary techniques as a mirror of human cognition,
this book traverses a rich landscape where literature and psychology
intersect.

The chapters within this volume cover a broad range of topics,

including the psychological analysis of literary characters, the influence
of Literature on psychological well-being, examination of literary texts
through psychological theories and essence of Psycholinguistics. This
anthology aims to serve as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and
enthusiasts of both Literature and Psychology. It offers a unique lens
through which researchers will get deep insights to explore the intricate
threads that connect these two disciplines, inspiring further research,
dialogue, and cross-pollination of ideas.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the authors who have

contributed their expertise, passion, and intellectual rigor to this project.
Their profound insights and meticulous scholarship have shaped this

ix
 Acknowledgements

book into a compelling exploration of the interdisciplinary terrain

between literature and psychology.

I would also like to express my appreciation to the reviewers and

editors who have diligently reviewed and refined the chapters, ensuring
the highest standard of quality and academic rigor.

Lastly, I want to thank the readers in advance for embarking on

this interdisciplinary journey with us. May the pages of this book inspire
you, challenge your thinking, and ignite new possibilities as we navigate
the captivating realm where literature and psychology converge.
Dr. Prem Shankar Pandey
Editor-in-Chief
10 July 2023

x
 CONTENTS

Chapter Title of the Article and Author/s Page

No. No.
1 Unveiling the Depths: Exploring the 1-14
Intersection of Literature and Psychology in
Character Analysis
Balogun Folasade Christina, Calvary Arrows
College, Gboko, Nigeria
2 Exploring Defense Mechanisms and 15-29
Psychological Reactions in Margaret Atwood’s
The Handmaid’s Tale
Dr. Azadeh Mehrpouyan, Assistant Professor,
Department of English Literature, Velayat
University, Iranshahr, Iran
3 Contextualizing Oedipus Complex in Marcel 30-38
Proust’s Swann’s Way: A Freudian Study
Neethu Mary Humphry, M.A., English and
Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad

xi
 CONTENTS

Chapter Title of the Article and Author/s Page

No. No.
4 Unravelling the Decline: Investigating Factors 39-55
and Solutions for the Deterioration of Moral
Values among School Students
Rajeshwari S, Research Scholar, Department
of English, School of Social Sciences and
Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology,
Vellore
&
Meenakshi S, Associate Professor, Department
of English, School of Social Sciences and
Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology,
Vellore
5 Exploring the Impact of Social Indifference 56-68
and Psychological Issues: A Freudian Study of
Shanta Gokhale’s Play Avinash
Dr. Pinak Sankar Bhattacharya Assistant
Professor Department of English Baneswar
Sarathibala Mahavidyalaya, West Bengal
6 Breaking the Chains: Challenging Gender 69-78
Roles and Portrayal of Women’s Psychology in
Indian Cinema and Literature
H. Karthika Assistant Professor of English St.
Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai,
Tamil Nadu

xii
 CONTENTS

Chapter Title of the Article and Author/s Page

No. No.
7 Empathy Evidently Existed only within the 79-90
Human Community: Unveiling the Complex
Dimensions of Posthumanism in Science
Fiction Literature
Sayan Chattopadhyay, Ph.D. Scholar,
Department of English, Adamas University,
Kolkata, West Bengal
8 The Interplay of Fiction and Psychology: 91-107
Exploring the Influence on Popular Culture in
Literature
Sanjukta Chakraborty, Ph.D., Research Scholar,
Department of English Language & Literature,
Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal
9 Exploring the Depths of Trauma: 108-122
Understanding Individual and Collective
Experiences in the Quest for Meaning and
Resilience
Dr. Thejas Gigy Thomas, Assistant Professor
(SG), Department of Languages, Hindustan
Institute of Technology & Science, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu

xiii
 CONTENTS

Chapter Title of the Article and Author/s Page

No. No.
10 Exploring the Nexus of Second Language 123-136
Acquisition, Psycholinguistics, Cognitive
Linguistics, and Literature: A Comprehensive
Analysis
L.Vidhya, Research Scholar, Department of EFL,
SRMIST (Assistant Professor of English, Sri
Ramachandra Faculty of Allied Health Sciences,
Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education
and Research, DU)
&
Dr S. Ramya, Assistant Professor of English,
Department of EFL, SRM Institute of Science
and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu
11 Experiences And Resilience of Transgenders in 137-153
Hetero-Normative Society: A Psychoanalytical
Contrast
J. Kavi Kalpana Ph.D. Scholar (Part-time)
Department of English, Guru Nanak College
(Autonomous) Velachery, Chennai
&
Dr. L.R.S. Kalanithi, Associate Professor &
Research Supervisor, Department of English
Dean, School of Languages Guru Nanak College
(Autonomous) Velachery, Chennai

xiv
 CONTENTS

Chapter Title of the Article and Author/s Page

No. No.
12 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: 154-166
The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a
Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great
Gatsby
Kowsalya R. M., Research Scholar, Department
of English, Hindustan Institute of Technology
and Science, Chennai
13 Self-Realization and Self-Actualization in 167-172
Margaret Atwood’s Novel Surfacing
Dr. Pooja Mittal, Associate Professor, Tejpal
Singh Kushal Pal Singh Memorial Degree
College Muradnagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
14 Psychological Complexities and Motivations 173-190
in Sharankumar Limbale’s The Outcaste: A
Psychoanalytical Study
Gulista Jawed, Guest Faculty, Jamshedpur
Women’s University, Jharkhand
15 Exploring Psychological Struggles and 191-197
Healing Journeys in D.H. Lawrence’s Sons and
Lovers: A Trauma Study
Abhijit Ghosh, Independent Scholar, West
Bengal

xv
 CHAPTER 12

RECLAIMING LIVES THROUGH

NARRATIVE: THE POWER OF
STORYTELLING IN TO KILL A
MOCKINGBIRD, THE BELL JAR,
AND THE GREAT GATSBY
Kowsalya R. M.
Research Scholar, Department of English
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Chennai
kowsalyaraji05@gmail.com

About the Author

Kowsalya R. M., as a budding author, is embarking on a new journey of
discovery and creativity. She possesses deep knowledge of the mystic arts of
language also her interest expands to an aura of unyielding imagination and
boundless curiosity. With an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship,
she approaches writing with a meticulous attention to detail. Through her
humility and willingness to embrace the process, she exemplifies the spirit of
a beginner—unafraid to take risks, learn from failures, and celebrate even
the smallest milestones. She understands that writing is not just about the
finished product but also the joy of self-discovery and personal growth along
the way.

Abstract
This chapter examines the utilization of narrative therapy in three iconic works
of literature; Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar,

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 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great Gatsby

and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Drawing upon the principles of
narrative therapy, which emphasize the significance of storytelling in shaping
identity and experiences, this study explores how narrative techniques are
employed to facilitate self-reflection, personal growth, and healing. Through
a comparative analysis of these three novels, the paper highlights the common
themes of storytelling, societal expectations, empathy, and personal growth that
emerge through the lens of narrative therapy. It emphasizes the role of narrator
as a channel for readers to witness transformative journeys, encouraging
introspection and self-exploration. By examining the transformative power of
narrative therapy in these literary works, this study underscores the profound
impact that storytelling can have in promoting understanding, empathy, and
positive social change.

Keywords: Narrative therapy, storytelling, self-reflection, personal growth,

healing, literature, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, The Great Gatsby.

1. Introduction
Narrative therapy as an innovative approach emphasizes the power of
storytelling to shape individual’s identity and experiences. This therapeutic
technique is deeply rooted in the belief that people construct meaning
through their stories about themselves and the world around them. In the
literary realm, authors often use narrative techniques to explore complex
themes and offer reader’s insight into the human condition.

Michael White, an Australian social worker, and David Epston,

a New Zealand family therapist, are credited as founders of narrative
therapy. They sought to move away from traditional therapeutic modes
that emphasize diagnosing and pathologising individuals and instead
focused on collaborative conversations that respect the knowledge and
expertise of the person seeking therapy.

According to narrative therapy, people are not defined by their

problems, but rather by their own stories and their abilities to navigate

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 Literature and Psychology: An Interdisciplinary Approach

challenges. By externalizing problems and examining the influence of

dominant narratives, narrative therapists aim to help individuals by
separating their identities from the issue they face and allowing them
to rewrite their stories in ways that align with their values and strengths.

The therapeutic process involves engaging in conversations where

individuals explore their stories, identify the alternative narrative, and
develop a sense of agony and resilience. Narrative therapists employ
various techniques, such as externalizing conversations, deconstructing
dominant narratives and creating preferred storylines to support
individuals in reshaping their narratives and reclaiming their lives.

This chapter will examine the utilization of narrative therapy in

three iconic works of literature: Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Sylvia
Plath’s The Bell Jar and F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. By analyzing
the protagonists’ narratives in these novels, it will be easily determined
how storytelling serves as a means of self-reflection, personal growth, and
healing.

2. Literature Review
Ralph. G. Menard, Group Approach to Narrative Therapy (The
Journal of Counseling Research and Practice, 2014). This paper
explores how to synthesize the current literature to provide a stronger,
more comprehensive understanding of Narrative Group Therapy.

Robert H. Rice, Narrative Therapy (The Sage Encyclopedia

of Theory in Counseling and Psychology 2015) In this thesis,
Narrative family therapy is explored as a non-directive, collaborative,
and relatively brief form of family therapy. Throughout the therapeutic
process, therapists consistently and skillfully ask questions to promote
the development of new narratives.

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 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great Gatsby

Dean Shackelford, The Female Voice in ‘To Kill a Mockingbird:

Narrative Strategies in Film and Novel (The Mississippi Quarterly,
1996-97) This article reveals the importance of female voice and gender
issues in Harper Lee’s popular Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a
Mockingbird, first published in 1960. The novel portrays a young girl’s
love for her father and brother and the childhood experience during the
Great Depression in a racist and segregated society where superficial and
materialistic values are used to judge outsiders, including the powerful
character Boo Radley.

Jeni Maple, Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar as Disability Narrative

(Shareok, 2009). In this thesis, Esther’s experiences in The Bell Jar
correlate with common experiences of disability, and for this reason,
disability theory can also be a useful critical tool in reading this novel.
In addition to enriching our understanding of the novel, such a reading
demonstrates the interconnections and overlap between Esther’s struggles
as a woman and her experience of mental distress.

Rawan Marwan Abdullah, Modern Narrative Strategies in

Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby (Middle East University 2015) In this
paper, Focalization has been utilized in analyzing Fitzgerald’s best-known
novel The Great Gatsby which partially derives its greatness and originality
from its use of new narrative techniques. The discussion includes a variety
of related issues such as types of focalization and facets of focalization,
including the cognitive, psychological, and ideological components.

3. Research Objective
The objective of this research chapter is to examine the power of storytelling
in three classic novels: To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great
Gatsby. The aim of the study is to understand how storytelling contributes
to the reclamation of lives, personal growth, and transformation of the
main characters in these novels.

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 Literature and Psychology: An Interdisciplinary Approach

4. Research Methodology
This research is conducted using a qualitative methodology. The novels
are analyzed in detail by paying close attention to the ways in which
the protagonists use storytelling to make sense of their experiences and
reclaim their power. It also draws attention to theoretical frameworks in
the field of narrative studies, psychology, and sociology to interpret the
findings.

5. Use of Narrative Therapy in To Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee’s iconic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, is not only a literary
masterpiece but also a powerful exploration of societal injustice, morality,
and personal growth. At the heart of the narrative, lies the transformative
power of storytelling seen through the eyes of the young protagonist,
Scout Finch. Through Scout’s narration, Lee employs narrative therapy
to delve deeper into the complexities of racial prejudice and its profound
impact on individuals and communities. This essay examines the role
of narrative therapy in To Kill a Mockingbird, highlighting its ability to
challenge societal norms, foster empathy, and promote personal growth.

5.1. Understanding the Narrative Perspective

To Kill a Mockingbird is narrated from the perspective of Scout Finch, a
young girl navigating the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama,
during 1930s. Scout’s storytelling acts as a mirror of the injustices prevalent
in her community. Through her innocent yet perceptive observations,
readers gain a nuanced understanding of the racial tensions and moral
dilemmas that permeate Maycomb.

5.2. Narrative Therapy as Self-Reflection

Scout’s narrative serves as a form of therapy, enabling her to sense the
events and experiences she encounters. From her encounters with the

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 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great Gatsby

mysterious Boo Radley to her father Atticus’ defense of Tom Robinson,

a black man falsely accused of rape, Scout uses storytelling as a tool for
introspection and understanding. While recounting her experiences she
examines her own biases, questions societal norms, and develops a deeper
empathy for others.

5.3. Challenging Societal Norms

Through Scout’s storytelling, To Kill a Mockingbird challenges deeply
ingrained societal norms and prejudices. She witnesses the racial injustice
faced by Tom Robinson during his trial, which exposes the inherent flaws
and hypocrisies within her community. Her innocent perspective cuts
through the prejudices of adults, highlighting the injustice of judging
individuals based on their race. By sharing her observations, Scout prompts
readers to confront their biases and reevaluate their understanding of
justice and equality.

5.4. Fostering Empathy

Narrative therapy in To Kill a Mockingbird also fosters empathy among
readers. Through Scout’s vivid descriptions and emotional connection to
the events, readers are compelled to step into the shoes of the characters
and experience their struggles firsthand. As lines in the novel describes,
“You never really understand a person until you consider things from
his point of view… until you climb into his skin and walk around in
it” (Lee, 30), the essence of narrative therapy where Atticus urges
Scout and readers to step into someone else’s shoes and empathize with
their experiences. Lee’s narrative invites readers to empathize with the
marginalized, challenge preconceived notions, and recognize the shared
humanity that transcends race and social status.

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 Literature and Psychology: An Interdisciplinary Approach

5.5. Personal Growth and Healing

Scout’s storytelling acts as a cathartic process, enabling her to process the
trauma and injustices she witnesses. By sharing her story, she not only
confronts the harsh realities of racial inequality but also fosters personal
growth and healing. Her narrative catalyzes change, challenging the
status quo and inspiring readers to advocate for justice and equality in
their lives.

6. Use of Narrative Therapy in The Bell Jar

Sylvia Plath’s novel, The Bell Jar is a poignant and introspective work that
delves into the depths of mental health struggles, societal pressures, and
the search for identity. Plath utilizes narrative therapy as a powerful tool
to navigate these themes and allowing the protagonist, Esther Greenwood
to embark on a journey of self-exploration, healing and personal growth.
This essay examines the role of narrative therapy in The Bell Jar and
highlights its capacity to confront trauma, fosters self-awareness and
provides solace for both the character of Esther and the readers.

6.1. Unveiling the Power of Narrative

The Bell Jar presents Esther Greenwood’s narrative as she grapples with
her mental health challenges and the stifling expectations imposed by
society in 1950s America. Plath’s intricate and introspective storytelling
provides a window into Esther’s mind, exposing her internal conflicts,
anxieties, and struggles with identity. Through Esther’s narrative, readers
are invited to examine their own experiences and reflect upon the
complexities of mental health.

6.2. Narrative Therapy as a Tool for Self-Reflection

Esther’s narrative serves as a profound form of therapy, allowing her
to confront her thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through her

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 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great Gatsby

storytelling, she explores the labyrinthine depths of her mind, attempting

to make sense of her inner turmoil and the external pressures that surround
her. Plath’s vivid language captures Esther’s introspection, enabling readers
to witness her journey of self-reflection and gain a deeper understanding
of their emotional well-being.

6.3. Confronting Trauma and Society’s Expectations

The act of storytelling in The Bell Jar enables Esther to confront and
process her trauma. Plath deftly weaves a narrative that touches upon
themes of personal loss, societal expectations, and the challenges faced by
women in a patriarchal society. By sharing her story, Esther confronts the
oppressive forces that threaten to suffocate her and challenges the societal
norms that contribute to her mental anguish.

6.4. Finding Solace and Connection

Esther’s narrative resonates with readers who experience similar struggles
with mental health and societal expectations. Plath’s raw and authentic
portrayal of Esther’s journey provides solace and validation for those who
may feel isolated in their battles. The power of narrative therapy lies in
its ability to create a sense of connection and empathy, reminding readers
that they are not alone in their struggles. As it is said by Plath, “Your
particular problem… will be what’s called a communication problem.
You will find that you are not the only one with this particular problem
and that in itself will be a help” (Plath, 72). This quote emphasizes the
importance of narrative therapy in connecting with others and finding
solace in shared experiences.

6.5. Personal Growth and Healing

Through narrative therapy, Esther undergoes a transformative process of
personal growth and healing. Her storytelling serves as a form of catharsis,
allowing her to distance herself from her experiences, gain perspective,

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 Literature and Psychology: An Interdisciplinary Approach

and find her voice. The Bell Jar illustrates the power of self-expression and
storytelling as catalysts for healing, empowering individuals to navigate
their challenges and emerge stronger.

7. Use of Narrative Therapy in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the concept of narrative
therapy through its characters and themes. The novel delves into the
lives of Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, and the affluent society of 1920s
America, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling and the
complexities of personal growth.

7.1. Narrative Perspective and Self-Reflection

Similar to Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird and Esther in The Bell Jar,
Nick Carraway serves as the narrator in The Great Gatsby. Through his
perspective, readers gain insight into his journey of self-reflection and
moral contemplation. Nick’s narration allows him to confront his biases
and judgements, ultimately leading to a greater understanding of himself
and the world around him. He shares his observations and emotions,
providing insights into his transformation. Reflecting on his upbringing,
Nick contemplates: “I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted
and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life ” (The Great Gatsby 35).

7.2. Confronting the illusion of the American Dream

The Great Gatsby presents a critique of the American Dream and the
pursuit of wealth and success. The character of Jay Gatsby embodies the
idea of the self-made man who creates an extravagant persona to win back
the love of Daisy Buchanan. However, the narrative ultimately reveals the
hollowness of Gatsby’s aspirations and the disillusionment that comes
with chasing an unattainable dream.

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 Reclaiming Lives through Narrative: The Power of Storytelling in To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bell Jar, and The Great Gatsby

7.3. Fostering Personal Growth and Healing

The novel explores the theme of personal growth as Nick navigates
the lavish and morally ambiguous world of the wealthy. Through his
interactions with Gatsby, Nick is confronted with the superficiality and
corruption that underlie the upper-class lifestyle. This experience makes
him to understand importance of values and he eventually rejects the
allure of materialism and revaluates his priorities for his personal growth.

7.4. The Power of Storytelling and Perception

The Great Gatsby highlights the role of storytelling and perception in
shaping one’s identity and relationships. Gatsby constructs an elaborate
narrative about his past to present himself as a man of wealth and status.
His desire to rewrite his personal history underscores the importance of
narrative in defining one’s identity and the consequences of living in a
self-created illusion.

7.5. Narrative Empathy and Understanding

The novel also emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding.
Nick Carraway serves as a compassionate observer, striving to understand
the motivations and complexities of the characters around him. His
willingness to listen and empathize allows him to see beyond the surface-
level facades and develop a deeper appreciation for the human experiences
of others.

8. Comparative Discussion of the novels

8.1. Transformative Power of Storytelling
In all three novels, storytelling plays a pivotal role in the characters’
journeys of self-discovery and personal growth. Scout in To Kill a
Mockingbird, Esther in The Bell Jar, and Nick in The Great Gatsby utilize
narrative as a means of self-reflection and expression. By sharing their

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stories, they confront their struggles, challenge societal norms, and find
solace in their experiences.

8.2. Impact of Societal Expectations

Each novel explores the impact of societal expectations on the characters’
lives. In To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout confronts racial prejudices and
societal norms surrounding gender roles. Esther in The Bell Jar struggles
with the pressures imposed on women in the 1950s. The Great Gatsby
examines the illusion of the American Dream and the expectations
associated with wealth and social status. All three novels highlight the
need for individuals to navigate and challenge these expectations to find
their authentic selves.

8.3. Themes of Empathy and Personal Growth

Empathy and personal growth are central themes in all three novels.
Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird, Esther in The Bell Jar, and Nick in
The Great Gatsby display empathy and seek to understand the perspective
of others. Through their experiences, they undergo personal growth and
develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around
them. These characters catalyse readers to question their biases, cultivate
empathy, and foster personal growth.

8.4. The Power of Narrators

The narrators in each novel - Scout, Esther and Nick serve as conduits
for the readers to witness the transformative journeys. They give insights
into their thoughts, observations, and reflections, offering multiple
perspectives on the events and themes presented. The narrators’
engagement with narrative therapy allows readers to connect with their
experiences, encouraging introspection and self-exploration.

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9. Conclusion
Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird stands as a testament to the
transformative power of narrative therapy. Through Scout’s narration,
the novel confronts deep-seated societal prejudices, fosters empathy,
and promotes personal growth. Lee’s storytelling resonates with readers,
compelling them to challenge their own biases, question societal norms,
and advocate for a more just and compassionate world. To Kill a
Mockingbird remains a timeless masterpiece, reminding us of the lasting
impact that storytelling can have in promoting understanding, empathy,
and positive social change.

Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar demonstrates the transformative power

of narrative therapy in exploring themes of mental health, societal
expectations, and self-discovery. Through Esther Greenwood’s narrative,
the novel offers a poignant exploration of the human condition and
the complexities of identity. Plath’s masterful storytelling provides
readers with a deeper understanding of mental health struggles and the
importance of self-reflection. The Bell Jar serves as a testament to the
capacity of narrative therapy to facilitate healing, foster self-awareness,
and provide solace in the face of personal challenges.

The Great Gatsby explores the themes of narrative therapy through

the lenses of self-reflection, the disillusionment of the American Dream,
personal growth, the power of storytelling, and narrative empathy.
Through the characters’ journeys and experiences, the novel invites
readers to question societal values, confront the illusions they create, and
strive for a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

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References
Primary Sources
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1925.
Lee, Harper. To Kill A Mockingbird. J. B. Lippincott & Co., 1960.
Plath, Sylvia, The Bell Jar. Harper & Row, 1963.

Secondary Sources
Abdullah, Rawan Marwan. “Modern Narrative Strategies in Fitzgerald’s
The Great Gatsby” Middle East University, 2015. https://meu.edu.jo/
libraryTheses/5871fd5f001fa_1.pdf
Maple, Jeni. “Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar as Disability Narrative” Shareok,
2009. https://shareok.org/bitstream/handle/11244/9523/Maple_
okstate_0664M_10659.pdf?sequence=1
Menard, G Ralph. “Group Approach to Narrative Therapy” The Journal
of Counseling Research and Practice, 2014. https://egrove.olemiss.edu/
cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1003&context=jcrp
Rice, H Robert. “Narrative Therapy” The Sage Encyclopedia of Theory
in Counseling and Psychology, 2015. https://fisherpub.sjf.edu/cgi/
viewcontent.cgi?article=1073&context=nursing_facpub
Shackelford, Dean. The Female Voice in To Kill a Mockingbird: Narrative
Strategies in Film and Novel The Mississippi Quarterly, 1996-97. https://
psi329.cankaya.edu.tr/uploads/files/Shackelford%2C%20The%20
Female%20Voice%20in%20To%20Kill%20a%20Mockingbird%20
%281996-1997%29.pdf
White, Michael and David Epston. Narrative Means to Therapeutic
Ends. W.W. Norton & Company, 1990.

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