Exploring Themes of Abandonment in Classic and Contemporary Literature

Abandonment is a poignant and recurrent theme in literature, often serving as a vibrant lens through which authors delve into the complexities of human psychology and the emotional fallout of being forsaken. This article delves into several celebrated works of fiction that profoundly explore the theme of abandonment, offering readers insight into how this theme is utilized to enhance the narrative and character development.

Classical Examples: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

The novella Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte is a prime example of a literary work that revolves around the theme of abandonment. Jane Eyre's journey is marked by a series of profound losses and rejections, each serving to shape her character and drive her towards the ultimate transformation.

Childhood Abandonment: The novel opens with the death of Jane's parents, which leaves her vulnerable and alone. This event serves as a stark introduction to the theme, setting the tone for the narrative. Reed Family: Jane's aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her cousins initially reject her, demonstrating how family can sometimes be a place of both love and abandonment. The death of her uncle, Mr. Reed, further exacerbates Jane's feelings of isolation. Lowood Institution: Jane is sent to Lowood, a strict and harsh girls' school, where she endures further emotional and physical abuse. Her friendship with Helen Burns, who is ultimately lost to consumption, highlights the harsh realities of abandonment and the profound impact it has on characters. Emotional Abandonment: Her initial relationship with Rochester is fraught with emotional abandonment, particularly when Rochester discloses the existence of his wife, Bertha Mason, in the attic. Jane's decision to renounce her love and leave Thornfield to preserve her moral integrity is a poignant example of emotional abandonment. Self-Abandonment: Later in the novel, Jane takes on the role of a teacher, marries St. John Rivers, and even considers renouncing her identity. These decisions reflect a deeper sense of self-abandonment as she strives to find her place in the world.

Modern Examples: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Another classic work that explores the theme of abandonment is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. The creature, a product of Dr. Frankenstein's scientific endeavors, is deeply abandoned both by his creator and by society.

Abandonment by Creator: When Victor Frankenstein abandons the creature immediately following its creation, the monster begins to feel a profound sense of rejection and rage. This abandonment is so extensive that the creature seeks retribution and terrorizes those around Victor. Social Abandonment: The creature faces isolation and scorn from society, leading him to seek a human connection but ultimately finding none. His search for acceptance and belonging is tragically unfulfilled, further emphasizing the theme of abandonment.

Conclusion

Through intricate narrative devices, classic and contemporary works of literature such as Jane Eyre and Frankenstein explore the theme of abandonment, providing profound insights into human nature and the emotional toll of being forsaken. These narratives not only entertain but also challenge readers to reflect on the moral implications of abandonment and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of this difficult truth.