Ecocriticism Theory Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is ecocriticism?
a field literary study that considers the relationship that human beings have to the environment: literary analysis informed by ecological awareness.
When did ecocriticism emerge?
Mid 1990s
Most ecocritical work shares a common motivation:
humans impact the environment in various ways - might damage the planet’s life and/or its support systems.
Ecocritics view their intellectual work as
a direct intervention in current social, political, and economic debates surrounding the environment.
Ecocentric Perspectives
re-read major literary works from an ecocentric perspective, with particular attention to the representation of the natural world.
Ecology
The relationships between the air, land, water, animals, plants, fire, etc., usually of a particular area/scientific study of this.
Environmentalism
Protecting the earth from human destruction.
Shallow Ecology
human needs and societal well-being that must determine our approach to nature
Deep Ecology
nature has value in and of itself, independently of its functions for human society
Commodification
The process by which an object or person becomes a commodity.
Ecofeminism
- how humans treat women and how they treat nature are connected
- environmental efforts are integral to assisting women
Ecocritical Questions
- Nature symbolism in text
- Role of landscape and nature
- Connection between nature and emotion
- Vales consisten with Ecological Wisdom
- How do our metaphors/personification of the land influence the way we treat it?
- Concept of wilderness
- Effect of environmental crisis in literature and pop culture
How does hiking affect the environment?
Leads to erosion of natural land
What are the dangers of foraging for edible plants?
Risk of consuming poisonous plants
What does ‘shallow ecology’ imply?
Humans push too hard on nature, leading to confusion and danger
What does ‘deep ecology’ emphasize?
Cherishing nature and enjoying its bounty
Fill in the blank: Wilderness often tests one’s resourcefulness, including making fire, finding food, and _______.
making traps
What role does nature play in a person’s survival experience?
A place for survival and testing resourcefulness
What is the significance of the Sierra Nevada in the context of nature?
A location for survival experiences
What symbolizes a connection with nature in literature?
Commune with nature, breathe fresh air, feel alive
What can happen if one gets lost in the wilderness?
Risk of starvation, death, or hypothermia
