Unveiling the shadows: Patriarchal constructions in Neil Gaiman's the Ocean at the End of the Lane

This thesis provides an in-depth look at gender dynamics in various literary works of Neil Gaiman, focusing on The Ocean at the End of the Lane. The author's narratives, encompassing novels, comic books, scripts, and short stories, have mostly gained critical acclaim, particularly for depicting strong and independent female characters. However, this study posits that the representation of women in Gaiman's works often remains tied to patriarchal frameworks, undermining the potential to portray women as powerful. To support this claim and offer a more inclusive discussion, the focus is also extended to works such as Coraline, The Sleeper and the Spindle, and "Queen of Knives". The thesis is divided into four sections, where it respectively explores the spatial limitations of patriarchy, scrutinizes the depiction of the "fame-fatale" through Ursula's dual role as both oppressor and oppressed, criticizes the perpetuation of patriarchal norms by women, and examines the stereotypical perceptions attributed to them.