What is Alter Ego in literature ?
“Alter ego” is a literary term used to describe a character or persona in a literary work that is similar to the author, but not necessarily identical.
In literature, an alter ego can be used to represent the author’s thoughts, beliefs, or experiences in a fictional setting. It can also be used as a way for the author to express their true feelings and opinions without directly revealing their identity.
Examples of Alter Ego:
For example, in Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde can be seen as alter egos. Dr. Jekyll represents the respectable, civilized side of the protagonist, while Mr. Hyde represents the dark, primitive, and violent side.
Another example is the character of Holden Caulfield in J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye.” Holden is often seen as an alter ego for Salinger, as he shares many of the same experiences and struggles as the author did during his youth.
