Norma Jeane De Constructs Marilyn Monroe: Joyce Carol Oates’ Blonde
Keywords:
Marilyn Monroe, Joyce Carol Oates, biographical fiction, cultural iconography, literary biographyAbstract
This article analyzes Joyce Carol Oates' novel 'Blonde,' a fictionalized biography of Marilyn Monroe, in the context of broader cultural and literary representations of the iconic actress. The paper explores how Oates' work intersects with other biographies and media portrayals of Monroe, examining the complexities of narrating life stories, especially those of historical personas. The author contends that Monroe's multiple, often contradictory images have fueled an enduring fascination, allowing for various interpretations and reinventions of her life. This study investigates Oates' approach to blending fact and fiction, using stream-of-consciousness narration to delve into Monroe's inner struggles and vulnerabilities. The article argues that 'Blonde' offers a unique perspective on Monroe's life, challenging readers to reconsider the boundaries between biography and fiction.
(The abstract and keywords were prepared retrospectively for indexing purposes using AI-assisted tools and editorial review, based on the original article. They did not appear in the original publication.)
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