Euphemism's usefulness: elusive eros in the novels of Charlotte Brontë

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Sharon E. Kelly (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Mary Ellis Gibson

Abstract: In this project, I examine the uses of euphemistic language and concealed erotic content in Charlotte Brontë's novels Villette and Jane Eyre with additional support from Shirley. Based on historicized readings of repression, I argue that the author includes non-traditional gender roles and sexualities in her novels to question the status quo. Because of the culture of publishing in the mid-nineteenth century, however, she was not free to write openly about sexual activities. Instead, Brontë used figurative language and sensual imagery to convey non-traditional gender performance and moments of eroticism.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2011
Keywords
Brontë, Charlottes, Erotic, Euphemism, Jane Eyre, Shirley, Villette
Subjects
Euphemism
Eroticism in literature
Brontë, Charlotte, $d 1816-1855. $t Jane Eyre
Brontë, Charlotte, $d 1816-1855. $t Villette

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