1. The Bell Jar–read and annotate the first four chapters (focus your annotations on Esther’s characterization). In addition to characterization, allow your annotations to be guided by the following feminist criticism questions:
1. How is the relationship between men and women portrayed?
2. How does Plath characterize the relationships between men and women? (focusing on power)
3. How are male and female roles defined?
4. Do characters take on traits from opposite genders?
5. What does the work reveal about the operations (economically, politically, socially, or psychologically) of patriarchy?
