The Portrayal of Mental Illness in Contemporary British Literature: A Comparative Analysis

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the portrayal of mental illness in contemporary British literature through a comparative analysis of selected works. Mental illness is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been a recurring theme in literature, reflecting societal attitudes and perceptions towards psychological disorders. The study focuses on how authors from different periods and backgrounds have depicted mental illness in their works, examining the various representations, narratives, and characterizations employed to convey the experiences of individuals grappling with mental health issues. The introduction provides an overview of the research topic, highlighting the significance of studying the portrayal of mental illness in literature and the relevance of contemporary British works in this context. The background of the study delves into the historical and cultural factors that have shaped the representation of mental illness in literature, setting the stage for the comparative analysis that follows. The problem statement identifies gaps and inconsistencies in existing scholarship on the portrayal of mental illness in British literature, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of how these themes are depicted. The objectives of the study outline the specific goals and research questions that guide the comparative analysis, while the limitations and scope of the study clarify the boundaries and constraints of the research. The literature review examines a range of contemporary British literary works that feature characters with mental illness, analyzing the different approaches and techniques used by authors to represent these complex and sensitive issues. Drawing on a diverse selection of texts, the review highlights common themes, patterns, and innovations in the portrayal of mental illness in literature. The research methodology section outlines the methodological approach adopted for the comparative analysis, detailing the criteria for selecting and analyzing the literary works under study. The discussion of findings chapter presents a detailed examination of the themes, characters, and narrative strategies employed by the selected authors, offering insights into the diverse ways in which mental illness is portrayed in contemporary British literature. In conclusion, this thesis summarizes the key findings and contributions of the study, highlighting the insights gained from the comparative analysis of the portrayal of mental illness in contemporary British literature. The research underscores the importance of literature as a powerful medium for exploring and understanding complex psychological phenomena, shedding light on the diverse and evolving ways in which mental illness is depicted in literary works. Keywords Mental illness, Contemporary British literature, Comparative analysis, Representation, Characterization, Narrative strategies.