Introduction
Time travel is a concept that has fascinated people for centuries. It has been explored in literature, film and television, with stories about travelling to the past or future being some of the most popular. One such story is Lauren Beukes’ 2013 novel ‘Shining Girls’, which follows the story of Harper Curtis, a serial killer who travels through time in order to commit his murders. In this article, we will explore the use of time travel as a plot device in ‘Shining Girls’ and examine how it is used to explore themes, characters and moral dilemmas.
Exploring the Themes of Time Travel in ‘Shining Girls’
The novel ‘Shining Girls’ contains a number of themes that are explored through its use of time travel. These themes include fate, mortality, morality and justice. The main theme of the novel is that of fate, with the idea that certain events in life are predetermined and cannot be altered. This is explored through the character of Harper, who believes that he is destined to kill certain ‘shining girls’ throughout time. This belief leads him to become obsessed with finding and killing these girls, believing that it is his fate to do so.
Mortality is another theme explored in the novel, with the idea that life is finite and death is inevitable. This theme is explored through the character of Kirby Mazrachi, one of the ‘shining girls’ who becomes determined to find her killer and bring him to justice. Her determination to survive despite her mortality serves as a powerful message about the strength of the human spirit.
Morality is another key theme explored in the novel. Harper’s actions are presented as morally wrong, and his disregard for the lives of others is seen as a violation of ethical codes. However, there are also moments when Harper shows compassion and empathy, suggesting that even those who have done terrible things can still possess a capacity for good. This theme is further explored through the character of Dan, a police officer who is determined to bring Harper to justice, but also struggles with his own moral convictions.
Finally, justice is an important theme in the novel. Though Harper’s actions are presented as morally wrong, the question of whether he deserves to be punished for his crimes is explored throughout the novel. This raises questions about the nature of justice and whether it is possible to seek justice for crimes that have been committed in the past.
The Impact of Time Travel on Characters in ‘Shining Girls’
The use of time travel in ‘Shining Girls’ has a profound impact on the characters in the novel. The protagonist, Harper Curtis, is a serial killer who travels through time in order to commit his murders. His obsession with finding and killing the ‘shining girls’ leads him to become increasingly reckless, as he begins to believe that he can alter the course of history. He also experiences psychological distress due to the constant time travelling, leading him to become paranoid and delusional.
The other characters in the novel are also affected by time travel. Kirby Mazrachi, one of the ‘shining girls’, is determined to find her killer and bring him to justice. Her determination is driven by her desire to have her life back after being taken away from her. She also experiences psychological distress due to the trauma of nearly being killed, leading her to become more isolated and paranoid.
Dan, a police officer who is determined to catch Harper, is also affected by time travel. His pursuit of Harper leads him down a dark path, as he struggles with his own moral convictions. He is forced to confront the consequences of his actions, as he begins to question whether justice can truly be achieved.
An Analysis of the Literary Devices Used to Present Time Travel in ‘Shining Girls’
The novel ‘Shining Girls’ makes use of various literary devices to present the concept of time travel. Symbolism is used to represent the idea of time travel, with the image of a house serving as a metaphor for the passage of time. The house is constantly changing, representing the idea that time is ever-changing and unpredictable. Metaphors are also used to represent the idea of time travel, with the image of a river being used to symbolize the flow of time.
Foreshadowing is used to create suspense and tension in the novel. The reader is given hints about what is to come, creating a sense of anticipation and mystery. Suspense is also created through the use of cliffhangers, which keep the reader guessing about what will happen next. Finally, the use of dream sequences helps to convey the characters’ inner thoughts and feelings, allowing the reader to gain insight into their emotional state.
Examining the Consequences of Time Travel in ‘Shining Girls’
The use of time travel in ‘Shining Girls’ has both physical and psychological consequences. Physically, time travel can cause fatigue, nausea and disorientation. It can also lead to physical injury if the time traveller is not careful. Psychologically, time travel can cause confusion, anxiety and depression. It can also lead to paranoia, as the time traveller may begin to worry about the potential consequences of altering the past.
Time travel can also have an effect on the relationships between characters. Harper’s obsession with finding and killing the ‘shining girls’ puts a strain on his relationship with his wife, as she begins to fear for her own safety. Kirby’s determination to find her killer strains her relationships with her family and friends, as they worry about her safety. Dan’s pursuit of Harper also affects his relationships, as he begins to question his own moral convictions.
How Time Travel is Used as a Plot Device in ‘Shining Girls’
Time travel is used as a plot device in the novel ‘Shining Girls’ in order to advance the plot. It allows the characters to travel through time in order to carry out their plans and achieve their goals. It also creates suspense and tension, as the reader is left guessing about what will happen next. Additionally, time travel allows the characters to explore moral dilemmas, as they are forced to confront the consequences of their actions.
An Exploration of the Moral Implications of Time Travel in ‘Shining Girls’
Time travel poses a number of ethical questions and considerations. The novel ‘Shining Girls’ explores these issues through the character of Harper, who believes that he is destined to kill certain ‘shining girls’ throughout time. This raises questions about whether it is ever right to take a life, and if so, under what circumstances. It also raises questions about the nature of justice and whether it is possible to seek justice for crimes that have been committed in the past.
Additionally, the novel explores the implications of altering events in the past. Harper believes that he can alter the course of history by travelling back in time and killing the ‘shining girls’. This raises questions about the potential consequences of such actions, and whether it is ever right to interfere with the past.
A Study of the Social and Cultural Relevance of Time Travel in ‘Shining Girls’
The concept of time travel is relevant to our modern society and culture. The novel ‘Shining Girls’ explores the impact of time travel on society and culture, through the character of Harper and his obsession with finding and killing the ‘shining girls’. This raises questions about the potential consequences of such actions, and the implications of altering the past. It also explores the relevance of time travel in modern culture, and how it can be used to explore moral dilemmas and the nature of justice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the novel ‘Shining Girls’ explores the use of time travel as a plot device. It examines the themes, characters and literary devices used to present time travel, as well as the potential physical and psychological harm caused by it. The moral implications and social and cultural relevance of time travel are also explored. Through its exploration of these themes, the novel ‘Shining Girls’ provides a unique and fascinating look at the concept of time travel.
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