Jacob Have I Loved | Themes

Jacob Have I Loved Themes

Self Discovery

Self-discovery is one of the most important themes in this novel. Louise feels that she is viewed as less important then her sister, Caroline. She sees herself as living in the shadow of her sister's talents and beauty. Louise sees the way that the people of Rass admire Caroline and the countless sacrifices that her family makes for her and feels forgotten. Caroline's music has enabled her to have a life path from a young age. Louise, on the other hand, cannot figure out her own path. The only work at which she excels is work done by watermen, work that is not considered to be suitable for women. Louise must find her purpose and her place in the world, beginning with her place in the family. Louise becomes a provider, working alongside her father as a crab and oyster catcher during her teenage years. But this role in the...
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