Bartleby’s Yellow Wallpaper: Open Conversations about Mental Health Through Literature

This article explores the value of Herman Melville’s “Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street” (1853) and Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper” (1892) as tools for encouraging discussions about mental health in the college classroom. By analyzing these literary texts, educators can create a supportive environment in which students feel comfortable discussing their own mental health struggles. The narratives of Bartleby and the unnamed protagonist in “The Yellow Wallpaper” offer opportunities for postsecondary students to reflect upon emotional wellness, character relatability, and the healing power of empathy. These stories can bridge the gap between educators and students, promoting open conversations about the importance of seeking counseling and understanding the impact of mental health on young adults. Through this approach, literature can be used to address emotional equilibrium, encouraging students to identify with the characters’ experiences and recognize their own mental health needs through university resources.