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A review by shaleen64
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This book skilfully covers the issues of patriarchy, mental health and bodily autonomy.
The book follows the main characters decent into madness in a direct manner without any dramatics. It is particularly enjoyable how the writing style changes to reflect this.
The analogy of both the Fig Tree and the Bell Jar are both relatable and affirming.
However, it’s impossible to ignore the blatant racism within the book, and whilst consideration has to be given to the time period in which it was wrote, the comments made just feel like a way for Plath to voice her own prejudices. For this reason alone I wouldn’t actively recommend this book.
The book follows the main characters decent into madness in a direct manner without any dramatics. It is particularly enjoyable how the writing style changes to reflect this.
The analogy of both the Fig Tree and the Bell Jar are both relatable and affirming.
However, it’s impossible to ignore the blatant racism within the book, and whilst consideration has to be given to the time period in which it was wrote, the comments made just feel like a way for Plath to voice her own prejudices. For this reason alone I wouldn’t actively recommend this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness, Mental illness, Racism, Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Medical content, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Fatphobia, Misogyny, Sexism, Sexual assault, Suicide, and Pregnancy