The Representation of Male and Female Characters in Steinbeck’s Novel East of Eden in the Context of Mythical TraditionDinić, Miona (Avtor) Čerče, Danica (Mentor) SteinbeckmythfreedommenwomenThe following research investigates the mythological world in the novel East of Eden by John Steinbeck and the difference in agency given to male and female characters. The analysis centres around the question of the extent to which the characters’ freedom is limited by myths. Our hypothesis is that male characters possess greater freedom to act due to myths supporting the patriarchal social order, while female characters are burdened with more oppressive mythical roles, limiting both their agency and authentic selves. The research is divided into several parts. Firstly, an overview of the novel’s mythological world and intertextual influences is offered, defining the concept and criteria for freedom, principally as the idea offered by philosophy of timshel. This part is followed by the analysis of male characters and various myths that operate on them. The next section is dedicated to the analysis of female characters and their mythical realities. Through the comparative analysis of the two genders, the research confirms that male characters enjoy more agency, although some of them (Adam, Charles and Aron) are more predetermined by Biblical stories. On the other hand, women’s freedom is limited both by religious and social myths, leading to severe consequences if they deviate from societal expectations. Ultimately, the research challenges the notion of East of Eden as a classic and universal work, shedding light on the potential toxicity of narrative that perpetuates the status quo.20242024-09-02 07:47:49Magistrsko delo/naloga160650sl