The Role of Protagonists in Jeanette Winterson’s 'Written on the Body' and Julian Barnes’ 'The Sense of an Ending'

The Protagonist's Journey: A Comparative Analysis

Both 'Written on the Body' and 'The Sense of an Ending' present readers with compelling protagonists who embark on a transformative journey. By exploring their personal narratives, we gain insights into their internal struggles, desires, and growth throughout the course of the novels.

Exploring Gender Identity and Love in 'Written on the Body'

Winterson’s novel delves into themes of gender identity and the complexities of love through the lens of its protagonist. We follow an unnamed narrator who tackles societal norms and challenges binary perceptions of gender. Through evocative prose and vivid imagery, Winterson crafts a story that pushes the boundaries of traditional narrative structures.

Memory and the Unreliable Narrator in 'The Sense of an Ending'

Barnes’ novel, on the other hand, explores the intricacies of memory and features an unreliable narrator who grapples with recollections of his past. As readers navigate through conflicting accounts and fragmented memories, Barnes raises thought-provoking questions about the unreliability of one's own recollections and the subjective nature of truth.

The Significance of Protagonists in Literature

Protagonists serve as the driving force behind a story, anchoring readers' experiences and providing a window into the author's thematic and narrative intentions. In both 'Written on the Body' and 'The Sense of an Ending,' the protagonists serve as vessels for exploring profound themes and challenging societal norms.

Conclusion

The role of protagonists in Jeanette Winterson’s 'Written on the Body' and Julian Barnes’ 'The Sense of an Ending' cannot be understated. Through their journeys, these protagonists confront societal expectations, grapple with existential questions, and ultimately leave lasting impressions on readers. These novels stand as testaments to the power and significance of well-developed and thought-provoking protagonists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does 'Written on the Body' explore gender identity?

A: 'Written on the Body' challenges traditional perceptions of gender by presenting a protagonist who defies societal norms and embraces fluidity and ambiguity in their identity.

Q: What makes 'The Sense of an Ending' narrator unreliable?

A: The narrator in 'The Sense of an Ending' is unreliable due to their fragmented and conflicting recollections of past events, which leaves readers questioning the accuracy of their narrative.

Q: What are some key themes in 'Written on the Body' and 'The Sense of an Ending'?

A: Key themes in these novels include identity, memory, love, and the subjective nature of truth.