Ironic Representation of the Female Power in Coelho's Brida

Abstract

The present dissertation seeks to explore the ironic representation of the female agency in Paulo Coelho's novel Brida. It attempts to show how Brida's resort to magic for her empowerment undermines her effort to challenge patriarchy. In the novel, Brida manages to challenge patriarchal values once she becomes a witch armed with supernatural powers under the guidance of two teachers of the magic and witchcraft: Wicca and Magus. It shows that Brida, as a woman, is not capable of challenging patriarchal values in reality. Therefore, her challenge to the patriarchal values through witchcraft and supernatural powers undermines Brida's own identity and agency as the woman.