Identity In The Bell Jar Sylvia Plath

American author, Ralph Ellison, once wrote, “When I discover who I am, I’ll be free.” In The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, the main character Esther is left at loose ends when the novel ends as to whether or not she will be released from a mental institution. As the reader follows Esther’s descent and ascension from her mental illness, it is wholly unclear as to what will become of her at the end; however, it is heavily implied that Esther is released from the mental hospital because of the metaphorical “shattering” of the bell jar and acceptance of her true self. For the purposes of this essay, the term “society” will mean general themes in America that transcend traditional boundaries such as class and race whereas “culture” will mean particular …show more content…
However, this bell jar also takes on an additional metaphorical meaning when we examine Esther’s insecurities as well as her relationships with those around her. In the end of the novel, Esther finally breaks free of bell jar when she breaks free of the relationships. For example, Esther’s deep-seated problems with sexuality and virginity are exemplified and aggravated by her relationship with Buddy who consistently brings out the worst in Esther and causes her to question and doubt who she thinks she is. Additionally, her tumultuous relationship with Joan is a reflection of Esther’s own insecurities about herself; the things Esther dislikes most about herself, she sees in Joan. Esther uses Joan as a prop to throw her insecurities about sexuality, beauty, and mental health onto. It is only after Joan’s death and her break up with Buddy does Esther make another reference to herself and the bell jar: “But I wasn’t sure. I wasn’t sure at all. How did I know that someday--at college, in Europe, somewhere, anywhere--the bell jar, with its stifling