Kayla Grant Ms. Ross AP English Language and Composition 19 January 2023 Argumentative Essay Throughout chapters one through three of We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson, the reader is made to believe that Constance Blackwood is guilty of the murder of her four family members, however, Mary Blackwood is the one to blame. With that being said, Mrs. Clarke saying that Constance had “done penance long enough” (Jackson 11) is in vain, and although Constance Blackwood is fearful of the outside world, she can overcome her fears and live a normal life. The title We Have Always Lived in the Castle in itself shines a light on a potential phobia that connects with the Blackwood family. “We” being the Blackwoods and the “castle” being …show more content…
According to eLibrary Science, behavior therapy such as desensitization can treat anxieties like Agoraphobia, and the gradual exposure to the public may make Constance feel comfortable with leaving the house. During chapters one through three, it is apparent that Constance has already taken steps toward exposure. For example, in chapter two, Constance and Mary were unaware that a second guest would be joining them, as Constance had only prepared herself mentally for one familiar guest. “Constance was perfectly composed,” (Jackson 10) Mary observed, which is a sign of her improvement. She did not cower or hide upstairs, which shows that Constance has the potential to overcome her fear. Constance also says, "Sooner or later," she said, "sooner or later I will have to take a first step” (Jackson 10). Constance is friendly enough to where when she does come out of her solitude, she will not have a hard time interacting with others. It is also implied so far in the beginning chapters that Constance is hopeful to leave the house and is actively anticipating it, so she does not see fear and anxiety as something holding her back from stepping out. The “first step” Constance is referring to is putting herself out more and interacting with people. This is a clear demonstration of her being willing to do so, and her bravery outshines her fear, so there is no room to say that Constance cannot overcome this anxiety and rejoin