How Does Kathryn Stockett Use A Split Narrative In The Help

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The use of a split narrative in novels is nothing new to the writing world, but when an author enhances three different characters with individual lives through separate styles and voices, it is certainly significant. Kathryn Stockett, in the novel The Help, embodies three separate women, one white and two black, who lead very different lives. Being set in the 1960s right in the middle of the civil rights movement, does not help their situation. Against all odds, the three women come together to write a book that shines a light on their town of Jackson, Mississippi. These women risk it all to get their stories out to the rest of the world. Stockett gives each narrator her own writing style and voice. This relates to a reader much more than a simple split narrative. Thus, Stockett’s execution of the split narrative idea gives a specific voice, heart, and style to each of the …show more content…

From her first written words, you can immediately tell that she has a college education. The other chapters do not compare to this sophistication shown in her writing. Not only is Skeeter’s education shown through the chapters, but her dreams and aspirations are also exhibited. Eugenia went to The University of Mississippi to become a writer. Opting out of many typical college experiences like parties, football games, and men, she worked extremely hard to get her education. Although she initially did not get a job in New York, she still wants to become a writer. Skeeter’s personality is comparable to Martin Luther King, in that she would do almost anything to achieve her dreams. Her long loved maid Constantine, the woman who practically raised her, inspires her to ignore what others say about her fluffy red hair or her height and just live for herself. Constantine’s continued support illustrates a flashback from Skeeter’s memory to the first time she was ever called ugly. Constantine says to