Sexual Repression In The Turn Of The Screw

Throughout my readings of New Historicism, I began to notice a pattern of similarities with that of the psychoanalytical theory. I mentioned sexual repression last week as a part of the Governesses’ decent into madness; however, this week’s theory gives more of a backdrop for that eventual loss of sanity. During the Victorian era, sexual promiscuity was forbidden; therefore, any sexual repression had to remain unsatisfied. James takes sexual repression to an all-time high, by subtly writing about sexuality. Obviously, James- pioneering a new age of literary knowledge chose to present a contradictory view in The Turn of the Screw.
Perhaps most contradictory is James’ allusions at numerous incestuous relationships within the story. Not only is there mention of a desired relationship between the Governess and her employer, but as I previously mentioned, the Governess eventually sets her sights on young Miles. In addition, there was clearly a relationship between Quint and Miles. …show more content…
This relationship also negates the social structure obliged during the Victorian era, as the Governess could not act on her sexual desires. We are told the Governess’ feelings in one short phrase, “when, for a moment, disburdened, delighted, he held her hand, thanking her for the sacrifice, she already felt rewarded" (James). While we are not given any more information than that, readers are left to wonder what sort of relationship would have occurred if the Governess had acted on her