The Power Within

The story of Emare is one that explores themes of isolation, influence and fate. In the beginning, Emare is with her father who, as Emare grows up, wishes to marry her because of her virtuousness and pure nature. Her nature is made clear when the author uses phrases such as "Her skin was white as a lily in May Or snow that falls on a winter's day." (Emare, 40%) At first glance this description of her is like that of Snow White. This is significant because this depiction of female lead characters sets them apart from the archetypes of other characters. 

Emare is cast out to sea. This is the first instance where she is isolated from society. It is worth noting that water typically symbolizes emotions expressed in the mind. When the ocean is stormy, it externalizes the internal struggle we go through when isolated. In addition, the way Emare escapes most of these situations is with divine help from God: "So ever she lay still. At last she was driven onto land Through the grace of God's own hand That all things may fulfill." (Emare, 58%) This shows that Emare was saved by fate. If the sea represents the ocean, then this scene suggests that our superego (as Freud called it) helps us combat negative feelings. Furthermore, when Emare is cast out again by her husband, it leaves a lasting impact on him. The idea that women have the power to influence men is not new. In today's culture, movies such as Sucker Punch reveal how much psychological power women have over men. In conclusion, Emare is a story about the lessons of how fate, influence and isolation can affect our lives. I find the story to be an empowering message for women.