LIMINALITY AND HYBRIDITY: CONSEQUENCES OF LIVING BETWEEN TWO WORLDS

LOUISE ERDRICH’S TRACKS’ PAULINE PUYAT AS A CASE STUDY

Abstract

In this paper, I analyze the concept of liminality and the negative collateral consequences it might bring to the liminal and hybrid character. The definition of liminality is goingto be analyzed as the most characteristic trait of Pauline Puyat’s personality, a mixed- blood character in Louise Erdrich’s Tracks. As a half-breed female, Pauline belongs to both and to none of the two traits that make up her identity. This duality causes in her many contradictory sentiments of isolation, loneliness and jealousy that will gradually disturb her mind and, eventually, she will act in an incoherent manner. By having two identities, Pauline is expected to enjoy her multicultural frame. Contrarily, Pauline Puyat’s liminality and hybridity affects her own self and, at some points, others’.