Exploring Urban Spaces in Literature: Cities as Characters in Literature

“A city is not a concrete jungle, it is a human zoo.” – Desmond Morris

Cities have always been a central theme in literature, serving as a backdrop for the stories and characters that inhabit them. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of cities being depicted as more than just a setting, but also as active and dynamic characters in their own right. This literary technique, known as the “city as a character”, not only adds depth and complexity to the story but also offers a unique perspective on the urban spaces we inhabit.

The concept of cities as characters in literature is not a new one. In fact, it can be traced back to ancient times, with cities such as Babylon and Rome being personified in myths and legends. However, it was in the 19th and 20th centuries, during the rise of industrialization and modernity, that the portrayal of cities as characters began to evolve.

One of the most notable examples of this literary technique is in Charles Dickens’ novel, “Bleak House”. Set in the gritty and polluted streets of London, the city is depicted as a malevolent force that not only affects the lives of the characters but also reflects the societal issues of the time. The city is described as having a “heaving and panting like a seething volcano, vomiting out smoke” – a powerful image that captures the tumultuous nature of the urban environment.

Another famous example is in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”, where the city of St. Petersburg is not only a physical setting but also an integral part of the protagonist’s psychological journey. The city’s crowded and chaotic streets mirror the inner turmoil of the protagonist, Raskolnikov, as he grapples with the consequences of his actions.

Modern literature has also embraced the concept of cities as characters, with notable works such as JG Ballard’s “High-Rise” and China Miéville’s “The City & the City”. These novels explore the intricacies and complexities of urban spaces, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. They depict cities as living, breathing entities with their own personalities and agendas.

One of the main reasons for the use of cities as characters in literature is the idea that cities have a unique and distinct character of their own. They are not simply an amalgamation of buildings and streets, but also a reflection of the people who live within them, their histories, and their cultures. As author Edward Hirsch puts it, “A city is not just a place, but also a group of lives which coexist in just one space.”

Using cities as characters also allows authors to explore various societal issues and themes in a more nuanced and complex manner. It offers a new perspective on urban life, highlighting the struggles and contradictions of modern society. By personifying the city, authors are able to delve into the intricacies of urban spaces, reflecting on their influence on the human experience.

Along with its aesthetic and narrative value, portraying cities as characters in literature also has practical implications. In a world where more than half of the global population lives in cities, it is essential to understand and critically examine the role of urban spaces in our lives. Literature, with its ability to capture the essence of a place and its people, provides a valuable platform for such exploration.

In conclusion, cities as characters in literature not only add depth and complexity to a story but also offer a new perspective on the urban spaces we inhabit. From ancient myths to modern novels, the portrayal of cities as characters has evolved and continues to be a common literary device. As we navigate our way through the concrete jungles of our modern cities, let us not forget to appreciate the unique character and influence of the urban spaces that shape our lives.