Critique of the Ethos of Individualism in Strout's My Name is Lucy Barton
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Department of English
Abstract
This thesis analyzes Elizabeth Strout's novel My Name is Lucy Barton to critique the ethos of individualism prevalent in American society. In the text, Lucy is presented as the true epitome of American individualism, who ignores family value and relations in order to move forward in her life. Ethos of individualism makes the protagonist self-centered because this ethic makes her to focus on accomplishing her dreams and goals by ignoring other people who are part of her life. She avoids family values, relationships, emotional bond and connection. However, individualistic ethos brings many positive changes in Lucy's life. She establishes her distinct identity and status as a writer. She gains success and material prosperity. Yet, this ethos makes her to suffer from loneliness, isolation, emotional detachment and lack of human connection when there is nothing left to be achieved in her life. For this, the researcher uses Alexis de Tocqueville's observation of "Nineteenth century American Individualism", Steven Lukes' ideas on "Individualism in America" and R. Philip Brown's "fundamental elements of individualism", as methodology for analysis. The rationale is that by understanding the effect of ideology of individualism appeals to value the familial love, bond, relationships, affection and humanitarian values. Thus, this research paper concludes that people should make balance between the responsibilities towards self and other. The significance of the study is to present how Lucy suffers due to her ethos of individualism.
Keywords: Individualism, American culture, Emotional Detachment, Family Value, Realization