Alienation by passivity : Jagna in Władysław Reymonts "The Peasants"

The aim of the article is to verify contemporary critics' statements about Jagna from Władysław Reymont's novel "The Peasants". The character's passivity is analysed in context of her relationships with men and the choice of husband. Special attention is paid to similes of Jagna and nature, which describe her as a passive person. Additionally, the article discusses the scenes presenting Jagna's rebellion against village morality and other elements distinguishing her from the peasants: lack of attachment to the land, artistic talent and special sensitivity.