Critique of Anthropocentrism in Kingsolver‘s The Poisonwood Bible and Desai's The Village by the Sea

Abstract

The thesis titled "Critique of Anthropocentrism in Kingsolver’s The Poisonwood Bible and Desai's The Village by the Sea" rummages into the commodification of nature and women in the modern world through the framework of ecofeminism, as conceptualized by Van Plump Wood, David Dobereiner, John O’Grady and Edward O. Wilson. This study investigates the intricate relationships between humans and their environment, emphasizing the detrimental impacts of anthropocentrism. Through a close reading of The Poisonwood Bible and The Village by the Sea, the research illustrates how characters like Orleanna Price and Lila challenge colonial and patriarchal systems to protect nature. Both novels highlight the integral role of nature in ecological systems and critique the exploitation of its beauty for personal gain. By employing an ecofeminist lens, the thesis analyzes narrative techniques, styles and language to underscore the importance of ecology and the non-human world. This theoretical analysis not only enhances our understanding of ecofeminism but also draws attention to the urgent need for a more harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Keywords: Nature, Culture, Ecology, Exploitation, Resistance.