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8 May 2023
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Exploring Rebecca: Who is Rebecca de Winter and Why Did Maxim Do It?
Kayleigh
@kaycarew
Character Analysis: Rebecca de Winter
Rebecca de Winter, the titular character of Daphne du Maurier's novel, is a complex and enigmatic figure whose presence looms large over the entire story, despite her physical absence. As a central element of the psychological rivalry in Rebecca's Manderley, her character is pivotal to understanding the novel's themes and dynamics.
Highlight: Rebecca is described as possessing beauty, brains, and breeding, yet she was also wild and uncontrollable.
This description presents Rebecca as the epitome of an ideal upper-class woman of her time, but with a rebellious streak that sets her apart. Her character embodies the tension between societal expectations and individual desires, a key theme in the novel.
Quote: "Rebecca - beauty, brains, breeding - was wild, uncontrollable"
Rebecca's influence on the other characters is profound and multifaceted. She is the object of obsession for Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper, who maintains Rebecca's rooms as shrines. For Maxim de Winter, Rebecca represents a dark secret and a source of guilt. For the unnamed narrator, Rebecca is both a figure of intimidation and a standard against which she constantly measures herself.
Example: The narrator's attempts to fit into life at Manderley are constantly overshadowed by comparisons to Rebecca, highlighting the psychological impact of Rebecca's legacy.
The character of Rebecca also serves to explore themes of power and control within the novel. Even in death, Rebecca exerts a powerful influence over Manderley and its inhabitants, manipulating events and emotions from beyond the grave.
Vocabulary: Legacy - Something left or handed down by a predecessor.
Understanding Rebecca's character is crucial to analyzing the power dynamics in Rebecca and the role of women in the society depicted in the novel. Her actions and their consequences drive the plot and shape the experiences of the other characters, particularly the narrator and Maxim.
The mystery surrounding Rebecca's true nature and the circumstances of her death form a central part of the novel's suspense. As the truth is gradually revealed, it forces readers to reevaluate their perceptions of Rebecca and the other characters, adding depth to the psychological exploration of the story.
Narrative Techniques and Structure in Rebecca
The narrative structure and techniques employed in Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca contribute significantly to its psychological depth and suspenseful atmosphere. Understanding these elements is crucial for a thorough Rebecca analysis PDF.
Highlight: The novel features a non-chronological, cyclic structure that begins and ends at Manderley.
This narrative choice immediately immerses the reader in the mystery and allows Du Maurier to gradually reveal information about the past, building suspense and psychological tension throughout the story.
Definition: Cyclic structure - A narrative that ends where it begins, often used to emphasize themes or character development.
The novel is narrated in the first person, past tense, from the perspective of the unnamed protagonist. This narrative choice allows readers to experience events through the eyes of a naive and inexperienced character, amplifying the horror and mystery of the unfolding story.
Example: The narrator's limited knowledge and understanding of Manderley and its inhabitants increase the sense of mystery and unease for the reader.
Du Maurier's decision to leave the narrator unnamed is a powerful narrative technique that underscores themes of identity and self-discovery. It also creates a stark contrast with the ever-present Rebecca, after whom the book is titled.
Quote: "Unnamed - lack of identity - book named after Rebecca"
The narrator's tendency to daydream and her girlish self-depiction provide insight into her psychological state and contribute to her character development. These elements also serve to highlight her feelings of inadequacy and her struggle to find her place in Manderley.
Vocabulary: Character development - The process by which a character in a story undergoes change or growth.
By employing these narrative techniques, Du Maurier creates a rich, layered story that engages readers on multiple levels. The structure and narration of Rebecca not only enhance the Gothic elements of the novel but also provide a deep exploration of the characters' psyches, particularly that of the unnamed narrator.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Exploring Rebecca: Who is Rebecca de Winter and Why Did Maxim Do It?
Kayleigh
@kaycarew
Rebecca Analysis PDF: A Gothic Masterpiece by Daphne du Maurier
This analysis explores the intricate themes, characters, and narrative structure of Daphne du Maurier's classic novel "Rebecca". The story delves into psychological rivalry, power dynamics, and the haunting presence... Show more
Character Analysis: Rebecca de Winter
Rebecca de Winter, the titular character of Daphne du Maurier's novel, is a complex and enigmatic figure whose presence looms large over the entire story, despite her physical absence. As a central element of the psychological rivalry in Rebecca's Manderley, her character is pivotal to understanding the novel's themes and dynamics.
Highlight: Rebecca is described as possessing beauty, brains, and breeding, yet she was also wild and uncontrollable.
This description presents Rebecca as the epitome of an ideal upper-class woman of her time, but with a rebellious streak that sets her apart. Her character embodies the tension between societal expectations and individual desires, a key theme in the novel.
Quote: "Rebecca - beauty, brains, breeding - was wild, uncontrollable"
Rebecca's influence on the other characters is profound and multifaceted. She is the object of obsession for Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper, who maintains Rebecca's rooms as shrines. For Maxim de Winter, Rebecca represents a dark secret and a source of guilt. For the unnamed narrator, Rebecca is both a figure of intimidation and a standard against which she constantly measures herself.
Example: The narrator's attempts to fit into life at Manderley are constantly overshadowed by comparisons to Rebecca, highlighting the psychological impact of Rebecca's legacy.
The character of Rebecca also serves to explore themes of power and control within the novel. Even in death, Rebecca exerts a powerful influence over Manderley and its inhabitants, manipulating events and emotions from beyond the grave.
Vocabulary: Legacy - Something left or handed down by a predecessor.
Understanding Rebecca's character is crucial to analyzing the power dynamics in Rebecca and the role of women in the society depicted in the novel. Her actions and their consequences drive the plot and shape the experiences of the other characters, particularly the narrator and Maxim.
The mystery surrounding Rebecca's true nature and the circumstances of her death form a central part of the novel's suspense. As the truth is gradually revealed, it forces readers to reevaluate their perceptions of Rebecca and the other characters, adding depth to the psychological exploration of the story.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Narrative Techniques and Structure in Rebecca
The narrative structure and techniques employed in Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca contribute significantly to its psychological depth and suspenseful atmosphere. Understanding these elements is crucial for a thorough Rebecca analysis PDF.
Highlight: The novel features a non-chronological, cyclic structure that begins and ends at Manderley.
This narrative choice immediately immerses the reader in the mystery and allows Du Maurier to gradually reveal information about the past, building suspense and psychological tension throughout the story.
Definition: Cyclic structure - A narrative that ends where it begins, often used to emphasize themes or character development.
The novel is narrated in the first person, past tense, from the perspective of the unnamed protagonist. This narrative choice allows readers to experience events through the eyes of a naive and inexperienced character, amplifying the horror and mystery of the unfolding story.
Example: The narrator's limited knowledge and understanding of Manderley and its inhabitants increase the sense of mystery and unease for the reader.
Du Maurier's decision to leave the narrator unnamed is a powerful narrative technique that underscores themes of identity and self-discovery. It also creates a stark contrast with the ever-present Rebecca, after whom the book is titled.
Quote: "Unnamed - lack of identity - book named after Rebecca"
The narrator's tendency to daydream and her girlish self-depiction provide insight into her psychological state and contribute to her character development. These elements also serve to highlight her feelings of inadequacy and her struggle to find her place in Manderley.
Vocabulary: Character development - The process by which a character in a story undergoes change or growth.
By employing these narrative techniques, Du Maurier creates a rich, layered story that engages readers on multiple levels. The structure and narration of Rebecca not only enhance the Gothic elements of the novel but also provide a deep exploration of the characters' psyches, particularly that of the unnamed narrator.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user