Sylvia Plath: motherhood and madness

About this course

The course considers how Plath’s private and published writing overlap, focusing on her letters, journals, poetry and the novel The Bell Jar. Discussion will explore motherhood, relationships with mothers, depression and mental instability, alongside questions about femininity, creativity and the label “confessional poetry”. Plath’s writing is also examined within the social contexts of 1950s America and early 1960s London, including gender roles and the position of women artists. Teaching combines short lectures and presentations with small-group work and full-class discussion, supported by weekly pre-class reading.

What you'll learn

• Analyse connections between Plath’s letters, journals, poetry and fiction
• Apply modern theories of life-writing to letters and journals
• Relate Plath’s writing to its social and historical contexts
• Examine representations of mental fragility, femininity and creativity
• Assess the meaning and limitations of describing Plath as a confessional poet

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for everyone, including learners who have not previously studied literature. Participants should be prepared to complete reading before class, discuss their responses, contribute personal ideas and take part in small-group and whole-class discussion. An interest in Sylvia Plath, women’s writing and non-fictional forms would be helpful.

• No previous literature study is required
• Weekly preparation includes reading before class
• Participation includes small-group and full-class discussion

Before you go

• Participants should borrow or buy a copy of Sylvia Plath’s Ariel. Either the Faber edition or Ariel: The Restored Edition is suitable.
• Participants should borrow or buy a copy of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath.
• Handouts for the journals and letters are provided.