The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath

ISBN: 9780571226160

The Bell Jar is Sylvia Plath's only novel, originally published under the pseudonym "Victoria Lucas" in 1963. This semi-autobiographical work chronicles the mental breakdown and eventual recovery of its protagonist, Esther Greenwood, a brilliant and talented young woman grappling with societal pressures and expectations. The novel delves deeply into Esther's deteriorating mental health, offering a stark and poignant exploration of her struggles with depression and identity. Plath's vivid and intense writing style draws readers into Esther's psychological turmoil, making her experiences palpably real and relatable—one such example being the “fig tree” metaphor featured in the text. The book is widely regarded as a haunting American classic, providing a candid look into the challenges faced by women in the 1950s and the broader issues of mental illness.

Featured in at least 6 post-secondary course classes (last updated February 2025)

ISBNs of note: 9780571226160

choose a tag below to find another read, or go back to the book page :)