What This Document Is
This is a character analysis essay, completed by a student named Karisma King for ENG 102 (Composition II: Writing through Literature) at LaGuardia Community College. The essay focuses on Shirley Jackson’s novel, *We Have Always Lived in the Castle*, and specifically examines the psychological state of the protagonist, Merricat Blackwood. It was submitted on January 19, 2017, to Professor Linda Burdick.
Why This Document Matters
This assignment is relevant for students enrolled in similar composition courses, particularly those analyzing literary works through a psychological lens. It serves as an example of how to approach character analysis, identify potential psychological disorders within a fictional character, and support those interpretations with textual evidence. It’s likely used as a model for student work or for instructor assessment.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This is a single student essay, and therefore represents one interpretation of the novel. It does not offer a comprehensive analysis of the text, nor does it provide a definitive diagnosis of Merricat’s condition. It is a starting point for understanding how to apply analytical skills to literature.
What This Document Provides
The full essay includes an argument that Merricat exhibits symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and anxiety. It provides specific examples from the text to support this claim, including Merricat’s rituals, anxieties surrounding social interaction, and reactions to visitors. This preview does *not* include the full essay text, only a description of its content and purpose. It does not offer a complete literary analysis or a detailed exploration of the psychological concepts discussed.
