Personal Identity at the Mercy of Emotional and Financial Abuse as Portrayed in The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

Abstract

The developmental stages and components of identity have been central in theoretical research, particularly social identity theory, which, while broad, emphasises the social elements that influence it. To better understand the external factors that affect identity formation, this research, conducted using a qualitative approach, aims to identify the effects of emotional and financial abuse on personal identity development. Additionally, this work seeks to clarify how social marginalisation and gender norms contribute to the damage of personal identity. The research will pursue these objectives from the perspective of Elsa Martinelli, as portrayed in Kristin Hannah’s historical fiction, The Four Winds. This extended essay will utilise attachment theory to analyse the unhealthy anxious attachment style exhibited by the character. Additionally, Julia Kristeva’s concepts of abjection and symbolic and semiotic orders will be employed to explore the character's self-esteem issues, as well as Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk’s somatic trauma theory, which explains dissociation as a coping mechanism and adds depth to the analysis. The likely outcome of this inquiry will confirm that the impact of society and the abusive neglect and marginalisation it perpetuates leads to a stunted development of personal identity. Additionally, social identity can yield positive outcomes in the absence of detrimental behaviours affecting mental health, especially concerning parental figures, as embodied by Elsa Martinelli.