Abstract

This thesis aims at exploring the self-imposed marginalization as well as the reshaping of the self of two unique female figures in literature while discussing the nature, the reasons and the impact of their attitude. The two characters who are studied in their out of place experience are Edna Pontellier, a nineteenth-century American in Kate Chopin's The Awakening and Layla Sulayman from twentieth-century Egypt in Latifa Al-Zayyat's The Open Door. The two characters are not chosen randomly, for, although they live in different times and places, they share a similar dilemma. Both are driven by their coercive families to struggle against those traditions which continuously dictate a strict and limited life while molding them into pawns, void of personality and critical thinking. As a result, both heroines resort to a fictitious world which â promisesâ protection from the frustrations and liberation of the restrictions of real life. Each character dissolves in her own way within this fictitious world. Eventually both Edna and Layla need to make a choice: either lurk forever in their imaginary world or face reality and responsibility. While each heroine takes her own decision, they both attempt to claim a radically new and free â selfâ .

Department

English & Comparative Literature Department

Degree Name

MA in English & Comparative Literature

Graduation Date

6-1-2011

Submission Date

March 2011

First Advisor

Kotini, Vassiliki

Second Advisor

Abdel sser, Tahia

Extent

NA

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Library of Congress Subject Heading 1

Chopin, Kate, 1850-1904 -- Criticism and interpretation.

Library of Congress Subject Heading 2

Zayyāt, Laṭīfah -- Criticism and interpretation.

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright. The author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Not necessary for this item

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