Sylvia Plath as an Androgynous Poet: A Deconstruction of Gender Norms in Poetry

Abstract

This research article examines Sylvia Plath's poetic exploration of androgyny, focusing on her work Ariel as a primary text of analysis. Plath's poetry eclipses the conventional gender roles, by transcending above and beyond them to craft an art which challenges the societal norms and expectations. Drawing inspiration from Virginia Woolf's feminist philosophy, Plath aims to construct an androgynous poetic voice, enabling her to assert herself with confidence and authority. The paper delves into Plath's struggles with suffering and sin, shedding light on her intricate relationship with gender constructs and societal pressures. Through a comprehensive analysis of Plath's literary corpus and her engagement with Woolf's ideas, this article explores how Plath navigates the complexities of gender roles, societal expectations, and artistic expression, ultimately striving for liberation from patriarchal constraints. Plath's poetic voice epitomizes a feminist stance which had allowed her to speak with authority while retaining sensitivity and introspection. By adopting Woolf's notion of an androgynous consciousness, Plath empowers herself to explore the complexities of human emotion and experience without being confined by societal expectations based on gender. Using language and imagery, Plath crafts a narrative that challenges the dichotomous view of gender, presenting a more nuanced and inclusive perspective. Plath's engagement with Virginia Woolf's feminist philosophy serves as a guiding force in her poetic exploration of androgyny. By aligning herself with Woolf's ideals, Plath seeks to dismantle patriarchal constraints and carve out a space for women within the literary landscape of feminism and American poetry in general.