AN ANALYSIS OF THE FEMALE PROTAGONIST IN DYSTOPIAN SOCIETY IN SHATTER ME SERIES*

Abstract

            This paper seeks to assess the character Juliette, the protagonist in the Shatter Me series which is post-apocalyptic. This work explores the effects of totalitarianism with special reference to the nature and development of Juliette. It examines the story of her transformation and personal growth during the period of enshrinement and struggle for survival under an oppressive regime. The sample includes Juliette and four other characters connected to her, as well as one organization: Apocalyptic warriors including: Aaron Warner, Anderson, Adam Kent, Kenji Kishimoto, James Kent, and The Reestablishment. In aggregate, the research focuses on five characters and one organization. Sample selection procedure was guided by the characters, which are pertinent to the study’s theme and examines the female protagonist and male characters who transform her. The sources of inquiry are the novels of Shatter Me series and the theoretical framework employed are post-feminist theory as articulated by Hélène Cixous and totalitarian theory by Hannah Arendt.
            This paper shows how Juliette struggles with the loss of a stable identity in fascist regime that yokes the body and the mind. It is sad that The Reestablishment puts so much pressure on her and ultimately erases her self-worth, making her a weapon without her agency. However, Juliette continues to struggle for the rebirth of herself, she gets stronger and tries to change herself from an oppressed person to a worthy leader. Finally, she regains her individuality and turns into a benevolent boss.