Lecture: Is Marat an Unreliable Narrator in "We Have Always Lived in the Castle"?

Introduction

Exploring whether Marat is an unreliable narrator in Shirley Jackson's novel.
Credits: Karen Lynch's notes recommended for deeper dive.
Structure of the lecture:
- Definition of unreliable narrator.
- Arguments for and against Marat being unreliable.
- Final verdict.

Unreliable narrators can't be fully trusted by the reader/viewer.
Characteristics:
- Exaggeration of self or story to appear likable or innocent.
- Detachment from reality, naivety, deception (intentional or not).
Examples:
- Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" – twist changes the narrative.
- Paula Hawkins' "The Girl on the Train" – narrator is an alcoholic.
- Poe's "The Telltale Heart" – narrator's madness affects perception.

Purposeful choice by Jackson to make Marat the narrator.
Marat's characteristics:
- Narrates younger than her age.
- Belief in sympathetic magic.
- Violent thoughts and actions (murder of family).
- Escapist fantasies (e.g., living on the moon).
Lynch's perspective: Marat is a "mad, bad, and spoiled child."
Litcharts perspective: Narrator being the murderer requires reader to infer missing information.
Example: Threatening Charles with mushrooms implies intent without stating it.

Reader's acceptance of Marat's point of view.
Lynch and Woodruff's observation: Narration encourages yielding to her worldview.
Imagery in the first chapters contrasts life inside vs. outside the house.
Marat's detachment does not equate to deception.
Marat does not lie or try to appear more likable.
Lynch: No narrative clues to suggest Marat is unreliable.

Interpretation varies, but focus should be on post-murder life of sisters.
Marat not trying to convince of innocence.
Other potential narrators (Constance, Uncle Julian, Charles) would likely be more unreliable.
Consideration: If the narrative focused on the murders, Marat might manipulate.
Modern comparison: Protagonist in Netflix's "You" – reliable in events but not character.