The Bell Jar (Sylvia Plath)

*The Bell Jar* by Sylvia Plath is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the protagonist Esther Greenwood’s struggle with mental illness, identity, and societal expectations. Set in 1950s America, it portrays her feelings of suffocation and detachment, likening her emotional state to being trapped under a bell jar—a transparent, isolating barrier. The book delves into themes of depression, the pressures faced by women, and the search for genuine purpose amid societal constraints. Its candid narrative offers insight into mental health challenges and the personal journey toward understanding and recovery.