Vol 3, (2023)
Articles

Self-awareness as Gyroscope in Paulo Coelho’s The Witch of Portobello

Giftsy Dorcas. E
Assistant Professor, Department of English, Kristu Jayanti College (Autonomous), Bengaluru.

Published 2023-12-31

Keywords

  • Self-awareness, Phillippe Rochat, levels of self-awareness, Paulo Coelho.

How to Cite

E, G. D. (2023). Self-awareness as Gyroscope in Paulo Coelho’s <I>The Witch of Portobello</I>. Kristu Jayanti Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences (KJHSS), 3, 30–34. https://doi.org/10.59176/kjhss.v3i0.2320

Abstract

Self-awareness is a crucial aspect of emotional intelligence, enabling individuals to recognize, regulate, and modulate their emotions effectively. This paper explores the concept of self-awareness and its significance in the lives of women, particularly through the lens of Paulo Coelho’s novel The Witch of Portobello. The paper delves into the various levels of self-awareness from confusion and differentiation to identification, permanence, and meta-awareness, as proposed by Philippe Rochat and demonstrates how Athena, the female protagonist, exemplifies these levels throughout her journey of self-discovery. As she progresses through the various levels of self-awareness, she learns to accept her emotions, confront her past, and discover her true identity. Her evolving self-awareness serves as a gyroscope, keeping her centred and guiding her towards self-actualization. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness as a gyroscope that guides individuals towards attaining a deeper understanding of themselves and navigating life’s challenges.

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References

Coelho, Paulo. The Witch of Portobello. translated by, Margaret Jull Costa, Harper Collins, 2007

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