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CONTRASTING IDEALS OF WOMENHOOD: A COMPARATIVE
STUDY OF RUTH MORSE IN “MARTIN EDEN” AND MAUD
BREWSTER IN “THE SEA-WOLF” BY JACK LONDON.
Shojalilova Mukhlisa
Namangan State University 4th- year student.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15680056
Abstract.
This article provides a literary analysis of two female
characters from Jack London`s novels - “Martin Eden” and “The- Sea Wolf“,
highlighting their artistic features within the context of the XXth century
bourgeois society. A comparetive analysis of the women of that historical
period is carried out through the literary representations of Ruth Morse
and Maud Brewster.
Key words :
Ruth Morse, Maud Brewster, Ruth and Maud differences,
differences in characters.
Introduction.
“Characters are the soul of every story - through
them, we see the world, feel emotions, and understand ourselves.” This
idea fits perfectly when exploring the lives of Ruth and Maud, two distinct
yet emotionally rich characters. Their experiences reflect both personal
growth and internal conflict. Although their personalities differ in many
ways, they share moments of recilience, emotional depth, and the search
for meaning. Through comparing Ruth and Maud, we uncover how
character development can shape a narrative and reveal deeper human
truths. This essay will examine their similarities and differences, offering
insight into what makes each of them unique and memorable.
As many avid readers know, Jack London is one of the most
prominent figures in english literature and widely recognized novelist of
his time. His novels, covering a wide range of themes, have deeply
resonated with readers across generations. In particular, his portrayal of
love, women, and human nature stands out for its emotional depth and
philosophical insight. Two powerful examples of this are the character Ruth
from Martin Eden and Maud Brewster from The Sea – Wolf. Both women
serve as emotional and intellectual centers of their respective narratives,
offering insight into the author`s view of strength, love, and individuality.
There are several key similarities between these two female characters.
Both Ruth and Maud emdiv the ideal woman in the eyes of any man -
well-mannered, educated, determined, beautiful, and from respectable,
intellectual families. Despite living in a time when women were often seen
as a step below men in society, especially during the bourgeois era, these
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women confidently engaged in discussions on art, literature, philosophy,
and other fields as equals to men. Each of them serves as a beacon of
hope, pulling a man out of despair and guiding him toward inspiration and
growth. With their feminine grace and intelligence, they rescue the male
characters from emotional and psychological collapse – and calling it a
salvation is no exaggeration.
While Ruth and Maud share certain qualities, their characters and
worldviews differ significantly. Ruth, from Martin Eden, is portrayed as an
idealistic woman who upholds traditional values and often represents the
social and cultural middle ground. She struggles to fully embrace the
profound changes experienced by the male protagonist, Martin, and at
times seems confined by her own idealistic outlook
1
. In contrast, Maud
Brewster, from The Sea-Wolf, emerges as a courageous, independent
thinker who confronts harsh realities head-on. She stands firm against the
cruelty of Wolf Larsen and refuses to compromise her princeples,
demonstrating strength and resilience uncommon in women of her era
2
.
Moreover, Ruth`s character is rooted more deeply in themes of
spiritual and romantic devotion; she symbolizes acceptance and love on
personal level. Maud, however, embodies not only love but also the
struggle for survival and awakening of consciosness. Jack London himself
describes Maud as “not merely a woman of charm, but a force to reckon
with in the face of life`s storms”(The Sea-Wolf)
3
. Ruth`s gentleness and
emotional depth make her a softer figure, often emdiving conventional
ideals, which sometimes limits her capacity for embracing change
4
.
Meanwhile, Maud`s boldness and intellectual independence set her apart as
a symbol of strength and defiance.
These distinctions highlight how London used these two female
characters to explore different facets of womanhood and how women coul
inmfluence the men in their lives – whether through nuturing idealism or
fostering courage and self-reliance.
One of the most important aspects is that Maud is able to stand by
and protect her live untill the very end. She endures all hardships – even
the cruelty of Wolf Larsen – to support Humphrey, proving her loyalty and
emotional strength. Her unwavering support leads them to eventual
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happiness and freedom. In contrast, Ruth cannot follow through with her
love. She is more influenced by the opinions of others and ultimately
abandons Martin in his darkest moments. As a result, Martin, feeling that
life has lost its meaning, takes his own life, and their love ends in a tragic,
disillusioned way. This stark contrast reveals that Maud represents true
courage and commitment, while Ruth`s love falters in the face of societal
pressure and personal fear.
Conclusion
. In comparing Ruth and Maud, it becomes clear that Jack
London used these two female characters to explore contrasting
dimensions of womanhood, love, and moral strength. While both women
are intelligent and cultured, their responses to hardship and emotional
conflict differ drastically. Ruth, though graceful and refined, ultimately yield
to societal expectations and distances herself from Martin during his most
vulnerable moments, resulting in a tragic and painful ending. Maud, on the
other hand, embodies resilience and emotional bravery. She stands by
Humphrey through adversity, proving that true love is not only romantic
but also rooted in loyalty, sacrifice, and courage. Through these two
women, London suggests that inner strength and authenticity are the
foundations of lasting love – and that true partnership requires more than
admiration ; it demands unvawering commitment.
References:
1.London, J. (1904). The Sea-Wolf. New York: Macmillan.
2. London, J. (1909) Martin Eden. New York: Macmillan.
3.Smith, E. (2012). Women in Jack London`s Novels: Independence and
Idealism.
4. Jones, R. (2015). The Female Archetype in early 20th Century Literature.
Literary Review Publishing.
5. Brown, S. (2018). Strength and Sensibility: Female Characters in Jack
London`s Fiction. Modern Literary Studies Journal.
6.qizi Bobonazarova, G.H.(2024).Jek Londonning “ Martin Iden “ ROMANIDA
AMERIKA REALIZMI DAVRIDAGI HAYOT AKSI. Analysis of world scientific
views International Scientific Journal,2(1)196-202.
7. qizi Bobonazarova,G.H.(2023). Jek London hayotining “Martin Iden”
asaridagi aksi. Golden Brain,1(10),280-223.
8.Jek London “Martin Iden” book media nashr, T-2020.
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9.Misirova Xayriniso, Jizzah Davlat Pedagogika Instituti 2- bosqich talabasi
https//ppmedu//jdpu.uz
index.phpl//ppmedu/article/download/9118/6403/21875.
10.Quranov D. Adabiyotshunoslikka kirish.t;2004.
