Çédille: Revista de Estudios Franceses (Apr 2009)
La puissance du regard chez Marie-Claire Blais: de la honte à l’affirmation de soi
Abstract
In Marie-Claire Blais’ first novels, the images of eyes and glances acquire a great significance. They highlight the character’srelationships, conformism or rebelliousness. The other’s constant gaze arouses feelings of shame and remorse in the character whichis being observed. This article will illustrate how Marie-Claire Blais’ portrayals of eyes and glances allow her to draw attention tothe character’s relationships and to denounce the dramatic consequences the notions of guilt and shame have in the searchof individual identity.