Exploring Identity in The Bell Jar

Introduction

Introduction

Esther Greenwood, the protagonist of The Bell Jar, struggles with her sense of self in a society full of expectations. Through this WebQuest, you will explore how identity is shaped by internal thoughts and external pressures.

 

 

Task

In pairs, you will investigate the factors that influence Esther’s identity and compare them to modern teenage experiences.

Process

Process

  1. Read the provided extract from the novel.
  2. Explore the resources below.
  3. Complete the questions.
  4. Prepare a short synthesis.

 

Questions

  1. What are the main pressures influencing Esther?
  2. How does she perceive herself?
  3. Identify one symbol representing her identity struggle.
  4. Compare Esther’s experience to modern teenagers.

Resources

  • Article: “Identity and Society in the 20th Century”
  • Video: “Teen Identity Formation Today”
  • Extract from The Bell Jar 

Final Task

You will explore this question by choosing one way to express your understanding of Esther’s identity in The Bell Jar. You can work alone or with a partner, depending on the option you choose.

🧠 1. Writer (Linguistic)

Write 4–5 sentences:

  • Answer the question
  • Include one example from The Bell Jar
  • Add your personal opinion

🎨 2. Designer (Visual-Spatial)

Create a visual representation:

  • Mind map, diagram, or symbolic drawing
  • Show:
    • “Society” vs “Individual” influences
  • Add keywords or short phrases

🎭 3. Collaborator (Interpersonal)

Work with a partner:

  • Prepare a 1-minute dialogue or mini debate
  • One student supports “society”
  • One student supports “individual”

🔍 4. Reflector (Intrapersonal)

Write a short personal reflection:

  • Connect Esther’s experience to your life or modern teenagers
  • Focus on identity and feelings 
Evaluation
Criteria Excellent (4) Good (3) Basic (2) Limited (1)
Understanding of the Question Clear, insightful answer showing deep understanding of identity Clear answer with good understanding Partial answer; some confusion Does not clearly answer the question
Use of Evidence Strong, relevant example (or quote/symbol) effectively supports ideas Relevant example included Example is weak or unclear No example from the novel
Expression & Communication Ideas are clear, well-organized, and engaging (written, visual, or oral) Ideas are mostly clear and organized Ideas lack clarity or structure Difficult to understand
Personal Response Strong personal voice; thoughtful and original perspective Personal opinion is present Limited personal input No personal response
Engagement & Interaction Actively shared work and gave meaningful feedback to a peer Shared work and interacted with a peer Limited participation No interaction
Conclusion

Through this WebQuest, you have explored how identity is shaped by both society and the individual in The Bell Jar. By analyzing Esther’s experiences, you have seen how expectations, choices, and personal perceptions all influence the way a person understands themselves.

You also expressed your ideas in different ways—through writing, visuals, speaking, or collaboration—showing that there is not just one way to think or communicate about identity.

As you reflect on your learning, consider this:

How do external pressures and personal choices shape your own identity today?