Lesbian English: The Complex Protagonist of Carrie: The Ultimate Victim or Victimizer?

When examining the protagonist of Carrie by Stephen King, one question constantly surfaces: does Carrie win by taking her revenge, or does she ultimately fail and become a monster due to her violent actions? This exploration into her character complexity reveals a narrative that challenges traditional notions of victory, loss, and moral alignment.

Wins, Revenge, and the Seeking of Justice

In the context of the prom scene, Carrie does achieve a form of victory by taking her revenge on her tormentors. Her telekinetic powers allow her to unleash chaos and exact a brutal form of justice against those who have bullied and humiliated her. This moment of triumph, however, is fleeting. Her actions lead to her own demise, and the consequences of her revenge result in widespread devastation. In this sense, her victory is hollow as it comes at the cost of her life.

Fails, Death, and the Price of Redemption

Carrie’s ultimate fate serves as a tragic end, suggesting that her victory was short-lived and unsustainable. The film explores the idea that her actions are ultimately futile, as the pain and isolation she suffered contributed to her violent outburst. This narrative raises questions about the nature of redemption and whether it is possible to find a positive resolution to one's suffering.

Becomes the Monster, Victim of Circumstances

Carrie’s transformation into a figure of horror can also be seen as her becoming the monster. Her overwhelming rage and the destruction she causes highlight the tragic consequences of her isolation and abuse. While she is a victim of her circumstances, her actions turn her into a source of terror, blurring the lines between victim and monster. This duality complicates her character and underscores the themes of power, vengeance, and the consequences of trauma.

No Winners, Only Losers

The broader narrative of Carrie can be seen as a story where no character is truly a winner. The film critiques the systemic failures that contribute to Carrie’s suffering, from the students' negligence to the teachers' lack of vigilance to the town's judgmental attitudes. The White family's dynamics, particularly Mrs. White's harsh treatment of Carrie, also play a significant role in her ultimately tragic fate.

Carrie’s desire to live her life and survive high school laid bare by the harsh realities of her circumstances. She ends up being pushed to the edge and beyond, ultimately becoming the most horrific monster in the town’s history. This conclusion leaves the audience with a sense of loss and a critical view of the characters’ actions and inactions.

Conclusion

Carrie is a multifaceted protagonist whose story defies simple categorization. Her character embodies the complexities of power, vengeance, and the pain of trauma. While she achieves a momentary victory through her revenge, her ultimate fate suggests a hollow triumph. Her descent from victim to monstrous figure highlights the intricate relationships between suffering, violence, and the hope for redemption. In the end, the story of Carrie serves as a poignant exploration of the human condition and the often tragic paths that lead to such extreme behaviors.