The Beetle · Theme
Identity and Loss of Self
How The Beetle develops Identity and Loss of Self.
Characters like Robert Holt experience a profound loss of autonomy and identity, becoming puppets of the Beetle's will, while others grapple with fragmented memories and altered states of consciousness.
Where it surfaces
- III: The Man in the Bed
Holt experiences a dissolution of his own identity as his will is subsumed by the creature, stating 'my manhood was merged in his' and he becomes an automaton.
- VI: A Singular Felony
Holt describes a 'dual personality' and feels his own volition is completely overridden.
- The Man in the Street
Holt's lack of awareness of his own actions and direction reflects his loss of autonomy and selfhood under the Beetle's influence.
- XLI: The Constable—His Clue—and the Cab
Marjorie is forced to wear Holt's rags and assume a male disguise, losing her own identity and modesty.