Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the representation of mental health in contemporary British literature, exploring how various authors depict and engage with issues related to mental health within their works. The study focuses on a selection of contemporary British literary texts that delve into the complexities of mental health, examining the portrayal of characters experiencing mental health challenges, the depiction of mental health institutions, and the broader social and cultural contexts that influence these representations. The Introduction provides an overview of the research topic, outlining the significance of studying mental health in literature and establishing the scope of the study. The Background of Study section delves into the historical and theoretical underpinnings of mental health representation in literature, tracing the evolution of this theme in British literary works. The Problem Statement identifies the gaps in existing research on mental health representation in literature and sets the stage for the objectives of the study. The objectives include analyzing how mental health issues are portrayed in contemporary British literature, examining the impact of these representations on readers, and exploring the potential for literature to challenge stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health. The Literature Review chapter critically evaluates existing scholarship on mental health representation in literature, synthesizing key themes and approaches in the field. The review encompasses a range of texts from various genres and periods, providing a comprehensive background for the study. The Research Methodology chapter outlines the research design and methodology employed in this study, including the selection of texts, data collection methods, and analytical frameworks. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and potential limitations of the research process. The Discussion of Findings chapter presents the analysis of selected literary texts, highlighting recurring motifs, narrative strategies, and thematic concerns related to mental health representation. Through close readings and comparative analysis, this chapter offers insights into how different authors engage with and challenge prevailing discourses on mental health. The Conclusion and Summary chapter synthesizes the key findings of the study, reflecting on the implications of the research for understanding mental health representation in contemporary British literature. The conclusion also discusses avenues for future research and underscores the enduring relevance of literature as a site for exploring complex issues of mental health and well-being. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of scholarship on mental health representation in literature, shedding light on the diverse ways in which contemporary British authors navigate and negotiate the terrain of mental health in their works. By examining the intersections of literature, mental health, and society, this study underscores the power of narrative imagination to illuminate and interrogate the complexities of human experiences.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "The Representation of Mental Health in Contemporary British Literature" aims to explore the ways in which mental health issues are portrayed in modern British literary works. Mental health is a significant and complex topic that has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its prevalence and impact on individuals and society as a whole. Literature has long been a medium through which authors have sought to explore and illuminate various aspects of the human experience, including mental health struggles. This project seeks to analyze a range of contemporary British literary texts that address mental health themes, examining how these issues are represented, perceived, and understood within the context of literature. By conducting a detailed study of selected works, the research aims to identify common themes, motifs, and representations of mental health, as well as to analyze the ways in which authors depict and explore the complexities of mental illness in their narratives. Furthermore, this research will investigate the potential impact of these literary representations on shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards mental health. By delving into the nuanced portrayals of mental health in contemporary British literature, the project aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the complexities and challenges associated with mental illness, while also shedding light on the ways in which literature can serve as a powerful tool for promoting empathy, awareness, and dialogue surrounding mental health issues. Overall, this research overview highlights the significance of examining the representation of mental health in contemporary British literature and underscores the potential of literature to engage with and illuminate the complexities of mental health in a nuanced and meaningful way. Through this project, the aim is to deepen our understanding of how literature can both reflect and influence societal attitudes towards mental health, ultimately contributing to ongoing conversations and efforts to destigmatize mental illness and promote greater awareness and understanding within society.