In "The Torment of Others" by Val McDermid, the theme of victimhood emerges through the experiences of two female characters. Their struggles highlight the societal pressures and injustices faced by women, especially in a world where patriarchal attitudes persist. The narrative illustrates how their victimhood is entwined with their gender, revealing the challenges they encounter as they navigate a landscape dominated by male power dynamics.

This notion of victimhood stems from a broader commentary on gender inequality, where some men feel entitled to wield power and dominance, often at the expense of women. The characters' experiences are a reflection of the real struggles women face in confronting a world that may deny them agency. McDermid's work poignantly captures this complex interplay of power, gender, and vulnerability, shedding light on the emotional toll it takes on those affected by such societal norms.