MAPPING NARRATIVE TRAJECTORIES:APPLYING CLAUDE BREMOND’S LOGIC OF NARRATIVE POSSIBILITIES ON SHAH’S BEFORE SHE SLEEPS

Abstract

The present study invokes the narrative study of Bina Shah's Before She Sleeps, focusing on the themes of sexual, emotional, and political resistance. The ways in which the female characters in the text challenge the authority of a patriarchal society are examined in this article in light of Bremond's theories, namely his concepts of decline, paths toward improvement, and narrative possibilities. Bremond's method allows for a more complete understanding of the characters' journeys by revealing their internal emotional struggles and the external limitations they face, both of which are often hidden yet essential to their resistance. Characters like Sabine and Lin are able to withstand strict rules by remaining strong, managing their emotions, and quietly disobeying authority. By using Bremond's theory, we can have a greater grasp of the emotional challenges and external pressures these women confront from inside and outside. These women also develop strong bonds with one another, which empower them and increase the likelihood of more significant societal change. By altering the plot's framework, the selected work illustrates the gender-based domination in their culture. This article claims that stories have the power to inspire social change, particularly when they are presented in unique and imaginative way. Before She Sleeps creates new ways to challenge unfair systems. This study demonstrates how feminist dystopian fiction may both offer hope for resistance and critique of the existing power structures.