Identity In Divergent

Finding one’s true self poses a challenge to many, but in Veronica Roth’s Divergent, this journey is proven to be more difficult because of the dystopian society in which the protagonist lives. Upon learning that she is Divergent, Beatrice “Tris” Prior must choose one faction to reside in for the rest of her life. Through character, motif, and conflict, Roth creates a systemic society which strictly adheres to conformity, resulting in finding one’s true identity.
Tris’ character aims to fit into society throughout the novel, and the literary element of character reveals the theme of self-identity. Her Divergence, however, makes this seemingly simple process more complicated for her. While looking in the mirror for the first time after she joins Dauntless, the bravest of the five factions within society, Tris notes that “[it is] like seeing someone else for the first time” (Roth 87). Her appearance is striking, and she does not recognize the person who she sees in the mirror. Moreover, the physical appearance of her character also represents the process of Tris becoming a new person, and her journey of embracing her Divergence. Tris …show more content…
Tris begins as an insecure Dauntless initiate, trying to fit in. She later develops into a strong, conscious woman who knows her own capability. The motif of light is prevalent in the story and relates to Tris’ understanding of her true self. Initially, she struggles without light, but later proves to be comfortable in the darkness. Divergence causes much conflict for and within Tris. Consequently, this conflict aids her in the process of coming to terms with her identity. She is not part of a faction; Tris is Divergent. In conclusion, this dystopian young-adult novel by Veronica Roth demonstrates the importance of bravery, self-awareness, and identity. Thus, one cannot know their true self if they conform to