Scarlett O'Hara vs Ashley Wilkes: A Narcissism Analysis

In Gone with the Wind, the characters of Scarlett O'Hara and Ashley Wilkes are often scrutinized for their personalities. This article delves into whether Scarlett can be labeled as a narcissist, contrasting her with Ashley's more seemingly unassuming character.

Tracing the Traits of Narcissism

To understand the scope of narcissism, let us begin by defining its key traits:

Control and Manipulation

Narcissists often exert power and control over others through manipulation. Scarlett utilizes manipulation as a tool to get her way, whether it is through wooing Rhett Butler or securing favors during the war. Her ability to turn the tables and use her charm to control the narrative of a situation speaks volumes.

Commanding the Room

Another hallmark of a narcissist is their ability to draw attention to themselves.

Scarlett is a master of this. In Gone with the Wind, her actions and decisions do not focus on the greater good but rather center around her needs. She frequently goes out of her way to get recognition and attention, as seen in her younger years when she worked hard to gain the affections of her male suitors.

Charming

Charm is a crucial component of narcissism. Scarlett possesses a magnetic charm that makes her irresistible to many, yet this charm is often self-serving. She uses her appeal to get what she wants, whether it is men, resources, or respect.

Lack of Empathy

A key trait of a narcissist is their inability to empathize with others. This lack of emotional connection leads to a cynical view of relationships and a disregard for how others feel.

Scarlett displays this trait throughout the novel. She rarely shows genuine care or compassion, focusing instead on self-interest. For instance, her marriages were predominantly based on strategic alliances rather than genuine love.

Superiority Complex

Narcissists often feel a sense of superiority, believing they are better than others. Scarlett frequently asserts her superiority, viewing herself as a step above the rest.

Her belief in her own superiority is evident in her interactions with others. For example, when she makes a mistake or faces a challenge, she never takes responsibility but instead blames others, showcasing her unwavering belief in her own superiority.

Exaggerated Need for Attention

Scarlett's need for attention is driven by her desire for validation. As a child, her early attempts to draw attention from potential suitors illustrate her constant need for the spotlight. This need only intensifies throughout her life, making her the center of attention wherever she goes.

Incapable of Love

Perhaps the most devastating trait of a narcissist is their inability to love genuinely. Scarlett's marriages, for instance, were built on ego and self-interest rather than love. Her relationships with Rhett and her various suitors were all about getting what she wanted, rather than nurturing a genuine connection.

An Objective Analysis

While Scarlett exhibits many traits of narcissism, it is important to note that diagnosing her with a specific personality disorder would require a more clinical assessment. However, her actions and behaviors align closely with what we understand about narcissistic personality traits.

In conclusion, Scarlett O'Hara may not fit neatly into any one category but her character certainly reflects the many facets of narcissism. Her flawed and often selfish nature makes her a compelling and complex figure in literature, while also highlighting the destructive potential of narcissistic behavior.