Rainbow : Journal of Literature, Linguistics and Culture Studies
Vol. 14 (2025): Special Edition

Self-Withdrawal as Individual Liberty in Response to Gender Inequality in Circe by Madeline Miller

Chairunisa, Nada Kamila (Unknown)
Rahayu Puji Haryanti (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2025

Abstract

Women are frequently controlled and subjugated as a result of gender inequality, which drives them to seek independence.  In Madeline Miller’s novel Circe, the protagonist’s act of self-withdrawal represents an assertion of individual liberty in response to patriarchal oppression. This study examines how gender inequality shapes Circe’s decision to isolate herself and how her withdrawal becomes a form of resistance and self-empowerment, analyzed through the lens of liberal feminism as outlined by Rosemarie Tong. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method, using the novel Circe as the primary data source. The findings reveal that Circe experiences various forms of gender inequality, which drive her to withdraw and develop her own identity and abilities. Ultimately, this self-withdrawal enables her to achieve a sense of individual liberty and personal agency. In conclusion, the novel depicts self-withdrawal as a deliberate and empowering response to gender inequality, consistent with the components of liberal feminism.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

rainbow

Publisher

Subject

Other

Description

Rainbow journal has commitment to exchange and share ideas as well as research findings from researchers. Also, it provides the interdisciplinary forum for the most recent innovations, trends, concerns, practical challenges encountered and the solutions adopted in the field of Literature, ...