The Study on Hopelessness Depicted in The Bell Jar

This paper is to examine 'hopelessness' in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar offering a detailed analysis of the negative life events contributing to protagonist Esther Greenwood's profound despair. Negative life events which Esther had experienced occurred in circumstance beyond her control and affected her mental health in a negative way, ultimately leading to her suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Focusing on three themes, 'failed relationship with male characters; unfulfilled aspiration and gender role; and hopelessness and suicide attempt,' the paper employs a thematic analysis approach, trying to provide a holistic understanding of Esther's hopelessness in her mental state. Three themes are interconnected and intensify Esther's hopelessness and multidimensional portrayal of despair. The implications highlight the study's contribution to literature, enriching our understanding of Plath's exploration of psychological and societal factors in Esther's emotional journey. (Dongguk University)