The couple described in “Mirrors” has decided to live without mirrors during summer, while spending their time in their summer house at Big Circle Lake. This cohabitation turns out to be not as harmoniously as the rest of the world sees it. The absence of mirrors causes several problems both partners try to deal with by themselves.
This paper shall be concerned with the image of mirrors in the story, regarding especially the concealment and revelation it symbolizes. Therefore the image of the mirror in general has to be viewed. Afterwards the mirrorless summer house has to be examined as well as the couple, which deliberately lives without mirrors. In addition special scenes will be analysed. After looking at the couple, the usage of mirrors in the story play an important role to find an answer to the question if the deliberate mirrorlessness reminds both partners of their better selves.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Mirrors in general
- The Cottage
- The Couple
- The Husband
- The Wife
- Last Scene in Bed
- How is the image of the mirror used in the story?
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper analyzes the symbolism of mirrors in Carol Shields' short story "Mirrors" and examines how the absence of mirrors in the couple's summer house reflects their relationship dynamics. The paper aims to demonstrate how the mirror serves as a symbol of both concealment and revelation, revealing hidden truths and allowing characters to confront their true selves.- The significance of mirrors in literature and culture
- The role of mirrors in self-perception and self-awareness
- The symbolism of the mirrorless summer house
- The impact of the lack of mirrors on the couple's relationship
- The use of mirrors as a tool for both concealment and revelation
Chapter Summaries
The introduction provides context for the story "Mirrors" by exploring the theme of reflection and its connection to self-discovery. It establishes the central premise of the paper, focusing on the significance of the absence of mirrors in the story. The section on "Mirrors in general" examines the historical and cultural significance of mirrors as objects of fascination and reflection, drawing upon mythology and religious symbolism.
The chapter on "The Cottage" describes the couple's summer home at Big Circle Lake, emphasizing the deliberate lack of mirrors within its walls. This absence creates a sense of privacy and allows the characters to escape the pressures of societal expectations.
The "Couple" section delves into the relationship dynamics between the husband and wife, exploring how the absence of mirrors contributes to their emotional and psychological struggles. It examines how the lack of visual confirmation of their appearance allows them to confront their inner selves and their relationship vulnerabilities.
Keywords
This paper examines the use of mirrors as a symbol in Carol Shields' short story "Mirrors." Key themes include self-awareness, identity, concealment, revelation, relationship dynamics, and the significance of absence.- Quote paper
- Franka Girod (Author), 2008, The Mirror as an Image of Concealment and Revelation in Carol Shields’ “Mirrors”, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/150860
