Table of ContentsIntroductionAnalysis of the Character of EleanorConclusionReferencesIntroductionIn "The Haunting of Hill House", many characters embark on a summer stay in a house reputed to be haunted. However, one character stands out as the most profoundly affected by the presence of the house. The narrative primarily revolves around Eleanor, positioning her as the central protagonist and delving into her response to the supernatural events in the house. Shirley Jackson's introduction of the character of Eleanor is of considerable importance, providing a basis for understanding and contextualizing the haunting experiences that followed. Notably, the journey to Hill House emerges as one of the crucial sections of the story, loaded with focused foreshadowing of future events and themes through close examination of Eleanor's characteristics as she approaches the house. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Character Analysis of Eleanor Eleanor's character unfolds through a lens that reveals her possession of a very active imagination. During her journey home, she seems deeply absorbed in thought, indulging in a whimsical, almost childlike manner. Mundane objects take on a romantic and captivating allure in his perception. Her mental realm stands in stark contrast to the rational, composed adult world in which she ostensibly inhabits. An example illustrating her vivid imagination occurs when she stops her journey to take a close look at the oleander flowers. At that point, she immerses herself in a fantasy story, imagining herself as a princess awaiting the return of her prince charming. This significant display of imagination and fantasy makes her seemingly youthful and innocent, especially considering her age. This makes readers think about the nature of his past experiences. While most individuals tend to outgrow these fanciful fantasies, Eleanor's persistent attachment to them stems from a life marked by a lack of opportunities for normalcy and healthy childhood. It is tragically ironic to foreshadow that she may never escape Hill House, reflecting her past where she was denied a conventional life due to her responsibilities to her mother. These elaborate, childish delusions expose her vulnerability, making her an ideal target for a house bent on possessing and losing her sanity. Compared to the other guests, Eleanor's mind exhibits a notable lack of stability. Within her lie the burdens of guilt arising from her mother's death and her deep emotions of resentment towards her. Before she even sets foot in the house, these unresolved feelings haunt Eleanor. In one part of the book, Eleanor takes a break for lunch and observes a little girl who refuses to drink her milk without her cup of stars. Eleanor understands the girl's desire and sincerely wishes that she has her coveted star cup. This scene symbolically represents Eleanor's own life. Throughout her youth, Eleanor rarely experienced life on her own terms, and her decision to embark on this journey symbolizes her quest for her own "star cup." She gets a semblance of it by choosing to move away temporarily. However, recalling the ending that forces her to leave home, she also attempts to cling to Hill House, much like the little girl yearning for her star cup. His yearning for adventure and desire to stay at Hill House ultimately led to his tragic demise. During her journey home, the narrative provides insight into Eleanor's propensity to., 36(3), 497-508.