Structrural Analysis second and third chapter

In the following paragraphs I am going to provide a structural analysis of the second and third chapter of Sally Rooney’s novel Normal People.

In the second chapter, the intelligent reader can notice the introduction of Alan, Marianne’s brother, who right from the start shows a possessive attitude towards her. It is clear that he wants to know all her actions and it also looks like he uses this behaviour to show his control on her and make her upset, for example addressing her only bad thoughts such as the fact that she is lonely. It seems like Rooney wants to highlight the situation of Marianne and emphasises her submission to her brother. However, even though it looks like Alan is always focusing on Marianne’s vulnerability, she does not come across as a weak character and she clearly demonstrates this in the following chapters. 

Furthermore, it can be said that the second chapter is particularly relevant because it starts to develop the main theme of the novel: the complexity of relationships. More specifically, this chapter focuses on Connell’s angsts of other people’s judgement. He is a popular student at school and it is clear that he is ashamed to date Marianne because this might ruin his reputation: he is very popular at school because he plays in the football team and at the same time he is also a very clever person. 

The third chapter of Normal People begins with the protagonists making some consideration about the choice of the university. Right from the start, it is evident that Marianne has a clear idea about what university to attend, while Connell is still uncertain about the future. Marianne has already decided she will study History and Politics in Trinity; on the other hand, Connell is undecided and considering both Trinity College and the possibility to study Law in Galway. It looks like Marianne manages to convince Connell to choose to study English in Dublin with her. This situation highlights the complexity of their relationships and the fact that even though Connell tends to have more power on Marianne, in this case she is the one influencing his choices. 

To sum up, the two chapters take into consideration important elements about the dynamics between Marianne and Connell and highlights the characteristics of their relationship. This can be defined as pretty dynamic because their roles change within the couple and according to the situation they have the power to influence each other’s choices. It is also important to highlight that from these two chapters it is clear that both Marianne and Connell are aware of the complexity of the world around and external circumstances such as other people’s judgements and social status are constantly influencing both their relationship and lives.