In Search of True Identity: The Mutual Relationships of Human Beings in Ian McEwan’s Atonement and Enduring Love

Abstract

Critically acclaimed writer, Ian McEwan, has been recognized as a pioneer for writing unique forms of fiction. His craftsmanship has been explained as “rational”, “controlled”, and “precise”. The narrative organizations in his works bring out the human nature, which is at times, introduced as misled, confused, and guilt ridden. Influenced by Freud, McEwan has written novels which probe into the psyche of the characters so deeply that they resemble psychological case studies. It is here argued that a psychological reading can be done based on the theories of Erik Erikson; namely, identity crisis and identity formation of the characters. Furthermore, to provide a richer theoretical background, narratology is incorporated. Monika Fludernik’s narratological novel approach sheds light on issues of misinterpretation and unreliability to further verify the psychological aspects of the work. Atonement and Enduring Love have been analyzed as evidence on the basis of theories in narratology and psychology. Finally, drawing on both theories, a new form of character representation will be manifested on identity and self-recognition.