Narratives of Rebirth and Resistance: Exploring Identity, Redemption, and Cultural Critique in Female-Targeted Rebirth Literature

Abstract

Rebirth narratives, as a unique literary phenomenon, have recently garnered significant attention in literary studies both domestically and internationally. Through protagonists’ rebirth experiences, these novels explore themes of identity reconstruction and life re-exploration, conveying profound reflections on the meaning of life and aspirations for the future. Compared to their male-targeted counterparts, female-centric rebirth novels tend to defy stereotypes, challenging gendered identities and conventional perceptions. By employing varied temporal, thematic, and character constructs, these works collectively advance the transformation of narrative structures. This paper aims to investigate the themes and narrative strategies of female-centric rebirth novels, analyzing how dual-layered narrative structures, diversified plot types, and resistance to mainstream culture profoundly express themes of identity reconstruction and life re-exploration.