The Role of Isolation in Shaping Feminine Identity in The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: A Psycho-Feminist Exploration

Abstract

The aim of this research is to explore how isolation influences the formation of identity in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Yellow Wallpaper (1892) through a feminist lens. By examining the protagonist’s experiences of confinement and mental deterioration, the research seeks to uncover the ways in which patriarchal structures contribute to the suppression of women’s identities. Additionally, the study aims to analyze the symbolism within the narrative, particularly the wallpaper itself, as a representation of the struggle for autonomy and self-expression. Ultimately, this research aspires to provide a deeper understanding of the psychological complexities faced by women in oppressive environments and highlight the transformative potential of reclaiming one’s identity amidst isolation.