Spatial Identity: Identity through Memory and Space in John Banville’s The Sea

Abstract

John Banville’s The Sea (2005) has its entire story drawn on memory. Through a close textual analysis, the paper examines the novel through the framework of memory. The paper is structured around the ideas put forth by the philosopher Edward S. Casey and examines how memories play a significant role in forming an identity within the individual and how memories are formed from spaces. Banville through his narrative techniques through the character indirectly presents the reality of the world. His withdrawal into the past by Max in the novel is not part of a theme but rather a unique narrative strategy employed by Banville. An individual has a sense of connection to their world with frequent interactions with the spaces around them. The research investigates how the spaces instigate the journey to the past in the character Max Morden. The sea and the house where Max spent his childhood are the spaces that aid in giving a sense of identity to Max who feels lost after the death of his wife. In a journey of searching for himself, he ends up visiting the place where he spent a holiday vacation during his childhood. It is through the engagement with these spaces and recollected memories from them that the character Max ultimately comes to a self-realization of his lost identity and in the end feels a sense of belonging to the world.