Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

A Critique on the Presentation of Male Dominance in the Text

In Jean Rhys's "Wide Sargasso Sea," the presence of male dominance is a central theme that
mirrors the power dynamics of the patriarchal society within which the story unfolds. This essay
aims to critically analyze the portrayal of male dominance in the novel and investigate whether it
serves as the primary catalyst for Antoinette's tragic descent into madness.
The narrative vividly portrays the patriarchal power structures embedded in 19th-century
Caribbean society. Antoinette, as a woman, becomes the victim of various forms of oppression.
These range from financial control exercised by her husband, Mr. Rochester, to the societal
expectations that dictate female submission. The ubiquity of male dominance underscores the
pervasive influence it holds over her life.
"Wide Sargasso Sea" effectively illustrates male dominance through the gradual erasure of
Antoinette's identity. She is systematically stripped of her name, language, and heritage when she
is transformed into the 'madwoman in the attic' within the narrative of Charlotte Brontë's "Jane
Eyre." This stripping of her voice and agency underscores the depth of male control over her
existence.
It is evident that male dominance plays a significant role in Antoinette's psychological
deterioration. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that her descent into madness is a
multidimensional process. It is not solely attributed to male dominance; it results from a complex
interplay of factors, including her isolation, racial and cultural dislocation, and the deeply
entrenched racism and colonialism of her society. Her marriage to Mr. Rochester, emblematic of
colonialist power, amplifies her instability.
A recurring motif in the novel, the element of fire symbolizes male dominance and destruction.
Mr. Rochester's attempt to control Antoinette by burning down her childhood home is a vivid
illustration of his power and marks the commencement of the tragic sequence of events that
ultimately leads to Antoinette's madness.
Therefore it is safe to say that in "Wide Sargasso Sea," male dominance and patriarchal power
are unmistakable themes, and they undeniably contribute to Antoinette's mental instability.
However, it is imperative to recognize that her descent into madness is a multifaceted
phenomenon. While male dominance is a substantial factor, it is intricately interwoven with other
elements such as racial and cultural dislocation, isolation, and colonialism. The novel poignantly
illustrates how the intersection of these forces can lead to the tragic fate of its protagonist.
Rhys's work stands as a powerful critique of a society where male dominance and power
systematically repress and annihilate the lives of women like Antoinette. It serves as a stark
reminder of the enduring struggle for gender equality and the devastating consequences of
patriarchal power.