DYNASTIC THEME IN THE POETRY OF ANNE SEXTON

This is a study of the dynastic theme which was first introduced into literature during the heroic ages. Early literature dwelt much on family relationships or blood-ties. This theme, although much neglected during other periods of literature, has had a revival in modern poetry, and is used by Anne Sexton. Much of her poetry deals with family relationships, mainly those involving her parents, daughters, and great-aunt. Sexton uses the dynastic theme in her works in order to convey other important themes. She explores her love-hate relationships within her family, guilt, alienation, and the cyclical nature of life through her dynastic theme.