Gerotranscendence reflected in Iris Murdoch’s The Sea, The Sea

This paper explores the theme of self-transcendence in Iris Murdoch’s The Sea, The Sea, offering a fresh perspective on aging as a journey of moral and spiritual growth. By examining the character of Charles Arrowby through the lens of literary gerontology and philosophical ethics, the paper brings together Murdoch’s portrayal of later life with theories of transcendence in gerontological studies. By analyzing Shruff End, Charles’s seaside retreat, as a space for moral struggle rather than a mere escape, the paper emphasizes how aging involves confronting and disentangling from past illusions to achieve a more profound moral clarity. Additionally, Charles’s evolving relationship with art is examined as a catalyst for unselfing and moral awakening, guiding both the character and readers toward an enriched understanding of beauty, truth, and the Good. Ultimately, this paper seeks to redefine self-transcendence as an active, morally transformative process, offering a more holistic and compelling vision of aging to engage scholars across literary studies, philosophy, and gerontology.