Myths, Legends And Life Stories As Vital Identity Reconstruction Channels In Gail Godwin’s THE ODD WOMAN AND VIOLET CLAY

This article deals with the identity reconstruction of Jane Clifford and Violet Clay, respectively heroine of The Odd Woman (1974) and Violet Clay (1978) by Gail Godwin. These two protagonists go back to their native regions where they draw from their family legends and myths as well as ancestors and parents’ life stories to reconstruct their identity. First, the article revolves around the lessons that Jane draws from the myths and legends about the late women of her family. Then, it deals with Violet Clay’s ancestors and parents’ lugubrious, but inspiring past life experiences.