Meaning: The quote "I see myself as Rhoda, not Mary Tyler Moore" by Iris Murdoch is a reference to two iconic female television characters from the 1970s. Mary Tyler Moore and Rhoda Morgenstern were both characters on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," a popular sitcom that aired from 1970 to 1977. The show was groundbreaking for its time as it portrayed a single, independent career woman in the lead role, which was not a common theme on television at the time.

Mary Richards, played by Mary Tyler Moore, was the main character of the show. She was depicted as a single, career-oriented woman working as an associate producer at a Minneapolis television station. Throughout the series, Mary was portrayed as optimistic, determined, and often seen as a role model for women of the era who were striving for independence and success in their careers.

Rhoda Morgenstern, played by Valerie Harper, was Mary's best friend on the show. Rhoda was also a single, independent woman, but her personality and style were quite different from Mary's. Rhoda was known for her bold, outspoken nature, and her distinctive fashion sense. She was portrayed as confident and self-assured, unafraid to speak her mind and stand out from the crowd.

In the context of Iris Murdoch's quote, "I see myself as Rhoda, not Mary Tyler Moore," it can be interpreted as a statement of identification with Rhoda's character traits rather than Mary's. This quote could be understood as Murdoch expressing a preference for the outspoken, individualistic qualities embodied by Rhoda, as opposed to the more traditional, optimistic persona of Mary.

Iris Murdoch, a renowned author and philosopher, was known for her complex and thought-provoking literary works. Her novels often delved into themes of morality, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Murdoch's writing style was characterized by its depth and philosophical introspection, and her characters were often multi-dimensional and morally ambiguous.

In the context of Murdoch's quote, it is interesting to consider how her identification with Rhoda's character might reflect her own views on individuality, outspokenness, and the complexity of human nature. It is possible that Murdoch saw herself as a person who valued independence, honesty, and the willingness to challenge societal norms, much like Rhoda Morgenstern.

The quote also raises questions about the portrayal of women in popular media and the impact of fictional characters on real-life identity and self-perception. Mary Tyler Moore and Rhoda Morgenstern were both influential figures in the portrayal of independent women on television, and their characters undoubtedly had an impact on viewers, especially women, during the 1970s and beyond.

In conclusion, Iris Murdoch's quote "I see myself as Rhoda, not Mary Tyler Moore" offers a fascinating insight into her personal perspective and perhaps reflects her alignment with the bold, independent qualities of Rhoda Morgenstern. It also invites contemplation on the representation of women in popular media and the lasting influence of fictional characters on personal identity and societal norms. Murdoch's identification with Rhoda's character serves as a reminder of the diverse and multifaceted nature of female identity and the importance of embracing individuality and authenticity.