MILKMAN THROUGH THE LENS OF FOUCAULT: POWER, SURVEILLANCE, AND RESISTANCE IN ANNA BURNS’ NOVEL

Abstract

Anna Burns’ novel Milkman intricately explores the psychological and social ramifications of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, presenting narrative rich in fear, suspicion, and violence. Through the lens of the unnamed young woman, Burns delves into the pervasive atmosphere of tension that characterizes the period. This article examines Milkman through the theoretical framework of Michel Foucault’s concepts of power and surveillance, highlighting how these elements permeate the narrative and shape individual and community dynamics. By analyzing key passages and employing textual quotations, this study elucidates Burns’ nuanced portrayal of a society under siege and the subtle acts of defiance that sustain its people.