『제인 에어』와 『테스』에 나타난 여성인물들의 관계와 정체성 형성

Abstract

This paper explores how Jane Eyre and Tess construct their identities as women by recognizing other women's experiences. Since Jane Eyre and Tess face their reality all by themselves, their life seems to be individualized, independent, and even exclusive. Jane Eyre declares "I care for myself" when she thinks there is no one to look after her, while Tess lives in a world where even her parents cannot understand her. Self-preservation becomes the most important thing for them. Moreover, many critics argue Jane Eyre and Tess form their identities by opposing and competing with other women. However, deep understanding of and sympathy for other women are the crucial elements constituting their own identities. By perceiving common oppression and hardship in other women's lives, they comprehend their identity as a woman more thoroughly. Jane Eyre's own identity becomes clearer by her perception of similarity to and difference among other women. Through her life, Jane Eyre recognizes what it means to live as a woman. Tess's tragic life partly comes from her sense of responsibility for other women. Tess cannot ignore the pain or suffering of other women whose lives cannot be separated from herself. It is obvious that Jane and Tess's identities are not exclusive but responsive to other women's life as long as they share the same reality as women.