The Bell Jar: The Illustrated Edition (Main)
What’s inside...
The Bell Jar is a semi-autobiographical novel by Sylvia Plath that follows the story of Esther Greenwood, a young woman experiencing a mental breakdown while navigating societal expectations, personal ambition, and her own mental health. The novel delves into themes of identity, depression, and the quest for autonomy, providing a candid and poignant look into mental illness. It broke traditional boundaries between fiction and reality, establishing Plath as a feminist icon and offering a sharp critique of 1950s society. The book continues to be relevant today, reflecting the universal human struggle to find one's place in the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
15-16
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Esther Greenwood's dreams and aspirations relate to her struggles?
What are some moments in the book where Esther shows strength and resilience?
In what ways does the author use the bell jar as a metaphor for Esther's mental state?
How do the other characters influence Esther's journey throughout the story?
What can we learn from Esther’s experiences about dealing with challenges in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Esther’s challenges, relating them to any personal obstacles they might have faced.
Discuss the importance of mental health and wellness, emphasizing the significance of seeking help and having supportive relationships.
Highlight the metaphor of the bell jar and discuss its implications about feelings of isolation or pressure, asking your child if they have ever felt similar and how they overcame it.
Use quotes from the book as conversation starters to delve deeper into the themes and characters' motivations.
Conclude discussions with a reassurance that challenges and setbacks are part of everyone’s life and discussing them openly can be beneficial.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding mental health challenges
Explanation: The protagonist, Esther, deals with significant mental health issues, which are depicted realistically and empathetically.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be aware of mental health issues, fostering understanding and empathy towards those who suffer from them.
Example Lesson: Importance of seeking help
Explanation: Esther's experiences highlight the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with mental health problems.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of talking to someone trustworthy, like a parent, teacher, or counselor, when they are facing challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Despite her struggles, Esther shows moments of resilience which can inspire readers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges with courage and to keep trying despite setbacks.
Example Lesson: Personal growth through self-reflection
Explanation: Esther’s journey includes moments of profound self-reflection, leading to insights about her identity and desires.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to engage in self-discovery and to embrace their unique journey towards adulthood.
Example Lesson: The impacts of societal expectations
Explanation: The book explores how societal pressures affect Esther's mental health and self-image.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to critically evaluate societal norms and expectations and helps in developing their own values and beliefs.