Ecocriticism

 Thinking Activity:- Ecocriticism

Hello Readers! This blog is written in response to the thinking activity assigned by Dr.Dilip Barad sir from the Department of English, MKBU. This blog deals with various western literary theories like Marxism, Feminism, Ecocriticism and Queer theory. In this blog, I will discuss   Ecocriticism.

Introduction:-

Eco-criticism is a relatively new field of study, emerging in the mid-twentieth century. It explores humanity's relationship with the natural world through literature, film, and the arts. With the escalating global climate crisis, eco-criticism has gained significance, aiming to assess and improve how humans interact with the environment. In recent years, it has become linked to activism, addressing ecological issues and suggesting more compassionate ways to coexist with nature.

Eco-criticism is a diverse field, often lacking common characteristics among works except for a shared focus on environmentalism. The primary goal is to contribute to improving humanity's relationship with the natural world. It operates in collaboration with climate change studies, aligning with efforts to address and understand environmental issues.

Ecocriticism:-

Ecocriticism, a term coined in the late 1970s by combining "criticism" with a shortened form of "ecology," refers to critical writings that explore the relations between literature and the biological and physical environment. Also known as environmental criticism or green studies, ecocriticism involves an interdisciplinary approach where scholars analyze texts that illustrate environmental concerns. This field of study emphasizes an acute awareness of the damage inflicted on the environment by human activities. In essence, ecocriticism is the examination of literature and ecology to understand how literature portrays and addresses environmental issues.

Ecocriticism originated from Joseph Meeker's concept of "literary ecology" in his work "The Comedy of Survival: Studies in Literary Ecology" (1972). The term "ecocriticism" itself was coined by William Rueckert in 1978 in his essay "Literature and Ecology: An Experiment in Ecocriticism." This field takes an interdisciplinary approach, analyzing the works of authors, researchers, and poets within the context of environmental issues and nature. It provides a critical examination of literature through the lens of ecological awareness and highlights the interconnectedness between literary expressions and the natural world.

Works of Ecocritical Theory:-

• Aldo Leopold's A Sand Country Almanac
• Rachel Carson's Silent Spring
• Ecology Without Natural by Timothy Morton 

Different Types of Ecocriticism:-

1. Pastoral

Pastoral literature, prevalent in British and American literary traditions, centers around the contrast between urban and rural life. It often idealizes nature and rural settings while portraying urban life in a less favorable light. Pastoral ecocriticism, within the broader context of ecocriticism, can be categorized into three branches: Classical, Romantic, and American. 

• Classical is Characterized by nostalgia and nature as a Place for human relaxation and reflection. 

•  Romantic is Characterized by Portraying rural independence as desirable. 

•  American emphasizes agrarianism and represents land as a resource to be cultivated.

2. Wilderness:-

Wilderness ecocriticism explores how the concept of wilderness is constructed, valued, and engaged with in literature. There are two branches within wilderness ecocriticism: Old World and New World.

- Old World Wilderness:This perspective portrays the wilderness as a frightening and threatening place situated beyond the borders of civilization. It is often seen as a place of exile, emphasizing the challenges and dangers associated with the untamed natural environment.

- New World Wilderness:In contrast, this perspective depicts the wilderness as a sanctuary—a place where individuals can find relaxation and reflection. This viewpoint shares similarities with Classical Pastoral ecocriticism, emphasizing the positive and rejuvenating aspects of the natural world.

3. Ecofeminism:-

Ecofeminism is a critical perspective that examines the connections between the subjugation of women and the exploitation of nature, typically by men. It draws parallels between the oppression of women and the domination of nature, often perceived as feminine, fertile, and considered property. Ecofeminism also incorporates aspects of environmental justice, including racial environmental justice. There are two branches of ecofeminism:

1. Radical Ecofeminism (First Branch): This branch embraces the notion that women are inherently closer to nature than men on biological, spiritual, and emotional levels. It is often termed radical ecofeminism because it seeks to reverse the historical domination of men over both women and nature.

2. Contradictory Ecofeminism (Second Branch): In contrast to the first branch, this perspective argues that neither women nor men are inherently more connected to nature. It challenges the idea that there is an inherent gendered relationship with the natural world.

Four Area:-

Area one :- 'the wilderness' (e.g. deserts, oceans, uninhabited continents). 

 Area two :- 'the scenic sublime' (e.g. forests, lakes, mountains, cliffs, waterfalls). 

 Area three :- 'the countryside' (e.g. hills, fields, woods). 

 Area four :- 'the domestic picturesque' (e.g. parks, gardens, lanes). 

Example of Ecocritical Literature:-

Kadvi Hawa:-

"Kadvi Hawa" is a film that delves into the repercussions of climate change on rural communities. The storyline revolves around a blind farmer and a young bank loan recovery agent, offering a portrayal of the consequences of extreme weather conditions. The film sheds light on the vulnerability of individuals directly impacted by climate change, emphasizing the challenges faced by rural communities as they navigate the changing environmental landscape. Through its narrative, "Kadvi Hawa" aims to raise awareness about the human dimensions of climate change and its tangible effects on people's lives.

Sherni :-

"Sherni" (2021) is indeed a film that delves into environmental and ecological themes. Directed by Amit Masurkar and featuring Vidya Balan, the movie follows the journey of a female forest officer working to address the conflict between humans and wildlife in a rural Indian setting. It explores crucial issues like man-animal conflict, conservation, and the intricate balance between human development and the preservation of wildlife and their habitats. By tackling these environmental concerns, "Sherni" stands out as a significant example of Bollywood cinema incorporating ecocritical elements and contributing to the broader discourse on ecological issues.

Anthropocene : The Human Epoch :-

"Anthropocene: The Human Epoch" can indeed be analyzed through the lens of ecocriticism, which involves examining how the film portrays and critiques the impact of human activities on the environment. Ecocriticism, as a field, explores the interconnectedness of literature, culture, and the environment. In the case of this documentary, an ecocritical analysis would involve evaluating how the film represents humanity's relationship with the Earth, the consequences of industrialization, and the role of technology in shaping the environment.

Conclusion:-

In conclusion, ecocriticism serves as a literary and cultural theory that intricately examines the relationship between literature and the environment. This approach delves into how texts depict nature, human interactions with the environment, and the ecological challenges confronting society. Embracing an interdisciplinary perspective, ecocriticism highlights the interconnectedness of literature, culture, and the natural world. By fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues, it encourages a sense of responsibility toward our planet, making it a valuable tool for exploring and addressing the complex dynamics between human society and the environment.

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