Repressed Voices: Female Struggle and Survival in Anna Burns’ Milkman
Abstract
Anna Burns’ Milkman explores the pervasive oppression and objectification of women within a patriarchal Irish society. The novel reflects how societal norms and cultural expectations, reinforced by male dominance, reduce women to mere commodities and undermine their autonomy and dignity. Burns portrays the psychological and emotional toll of living in a male-centric, politically unstable society. Middle Sister’s, the protagonist, her struggle for independence is marred by social scrutiny, patriarchal coercion, and systemic inequality. Her interactions with Milkman, an ex-army officer who manipulates her vulnerability, reflect the broader societal exploitation of women. The narrative highlights the internalized oppression experienced by women and the complex intersection of gender, power, and social conformity. Burns critiques the limitations imposed on women, exposing how objectification and systemic control reinforce gender inequality. Ultimately, Milkman underscores the resilience of women who seek empowerment and self-determination despite societal and political adversity.
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