The Exploration of Identity and Selfhood in The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

Abstract

The fear of dying and feeling stuck in the same place are common experiences for everyone. The desire to travel, be free, and meet new people can make anyone desperate. In this thesis, I use The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab as my primary source to analyse the main character’s identity and selfhood. The main character makes a deal with the devil and struggles with the consequences of her choice.

Women have struggled with their rights and living in a patriarchal society for many centuries. The main character’s story in the primary source of my thesis starts in the seventeenth century and continues all the way to year 2014. Thus, analysing the story through a historical lens is vital.

Mental health issues can make people feel paralyzed. These issues often affect our identity, selfhood and even personality. The main character Addie, and other side characters are battling these issues in their own way. They are all connected by these complex struggles of being human.

This bachelor’s thesis also examines the themes of immortality, history of womanhood, romantic relationships, and the fear of dying. Through these themes I aim to analyse how the main character copes with her immortality and loneliness. I use literary research as well as historical and psychological frameworks in this bachelor’s thesis. Through my analysis I will discover aspects of the main character’s selfishness, ignorance and privilege.