In Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s short story ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’, the narrator remains unnamed throughout the narrative for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, her anonymity serves to emphasize her role as an everywoman character, representing the struggles faced by many women during the late 19th century. By not giving her a name, Gilman allows readers to focus on the universal themes of oppression, isolation, and the quest for identity that transcend individual identities.
Furthermore, the lack of a name highlights the narrator’s mental deterioration. As the story progresses, her sense of self diminishes in response to her husband’s patronizing treatment and the stringent societal norms of the time. The absence of a name mirrors her lost individuality, as she becomes defined solely by her role as a wife and mother, rather than as an autonomous person with her own thoughts and feelings.
Additionally, the unnamed narrator invites readers to engage more deeply with her internal struggles. By not providing a specific name, Gilman encourages audience members to project their interpretations and feelings onto the character, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative. As a result, we’re left to grapple with the implications of her experiences and the oppressive structures that contribute to her mental decline.