Female beauty in British literature: diachronic aspect

Ilienko K. Female beauty in British literature: diachronic aspect : bachelor’s paper : 035 Philology / Ilienko Kseniia. - Kyiv, 2023. - 67 с.

The linguistic analysis of the concept of beauty in British literature will involve a systematic examination of textual excerpts, identifying recurring motifs, metaphors, and imagery related to female beauty. Through a close reading of these literary representations, we aim to discern the underlying meanings, symbolism, and cultural connotations associated with beauty. This research seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the representation of beauty in literature and provide insights into its evolving nature within the British literary tradition.
The following authors and their contributions provide a theoretical foundation for the study:
1. Judith Butler: Butler's work on gender performativity and the construction of identity is relevant to understanding how beauty and femininity are socially and linguistically constructed in literature.
2. Laura Mulvey: Mulvey's theories on the male gaze and visual pleasure offer insights into the representation of female beauty and its objectification in literary texts.
3. Roland Barthes: Barthes' semiotic analysis and his exploration of mythologies surrounding beauty and femininity contribute to understanding the cultural and symbolic dimensions of beauty in literature.
4. Sandra M. Gilbert and Susan Gubar: Their seminal work "The Madwoman in the Attic" examines the portrayal of women in literature.