identity in literature

In literature, identity refers to how characters perceive themselves and are perceived by others, encompassing their sense of self, personality, values, and background. It involves exploring what makes a person unique, including their ethnicity, beliefs, and experiences. Writers often examine identity to reveal characters' motivations, conflicts, and growth, highlighting how individual background and societal influences shape who they are. This concept helps readers understand characters on a deeper level and reflects real-world questions about self-understanding, belonging, and the complexity of human nature.