How is the Blackwood estate both a refuge and a prison in We have Always lived in the Castle? Shirley Jackson's "We Have Always Lived in the Castle" introduces readers to the mysterious Blackwood estate, a setting that profoundly intertwines the themes of refuge and confinement. Surrounded by imposing walls, the grand mansion becomes a sanctuary for sisters Merricat and Constance Blackwood, offering them a haven from the world outside. Yet, it also serves as a restrictive environment, haunted by the tragic memories of their past. Throughout the novel, Jackson explores the estate's dual nature, revealing how it can function both as a safe harbour from external threats and as a prison that entraps the people living there. The complicated details …show more content…
As the narrator Merricat observes, "It was necessary for me to check to be sure that the...gates were securely locked." This quote not only reflects Merricat's desire for safety, but also underscores the estate's role as a protective barrier. The gates symbolize a psychological threshold, allowing the Blackwood sisters to construct their own reality within the estate's walls, separate from the hostility of the outside world. Within these boundaries, the sisters manage a unique way of life that fosters a sense of belonging and security. The estate becomes a realm where they can indulge in their rituals and traditions, reinforcing their bond and providing stability amidst chaos. Merricat’s protective behaviors, such as burying objects to ward off evil, demonstrate her efforts to solidify this sanctuary. She states, "I had always buried things...as long as I had put them there, nothing could get in to harm us." These actions reflect an internalised need for control and protection, representing the family’s attempt to create a secure haven within their