An Ecofeminist Analysis of Alice Walker's Vision of Life as Portrayed in her Latest Poetry

Mgr. Tereza Kaletová

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

The aim of my thesis is to analyze Alice Walker’s collection of poems Absolute Trust in the Goodness of the Earth on the basis of an ecofeministic theory. Influenced by several ecofeminists, I have articulated my own theory of ecofeminism, which has been further enriched and developed by Walker’s poetry. In the thesis I especially focused on a vision of life and its importance for us as well as for future generations. I believe that a balanced relationship among people, nature and any kind of spirit is needed. Then, this relationship should be introduced ideally in non-patriarchal society in a connection with God or any kind of spirit (according to one’s personal beliefs). Finally, I feel that it is necessary to add openness, care, sensitivity and patience in the relationships both towards people as well as towards nature in order to avoid conflicts and harm.

Abstract:

The aim of my thesis is to analyze Alice Walker’s collection of poems Absolute Trust in the Goodness of the Earth on the basis of an ecofeministic theory. Influenced by several ecofeminists, I have articulated my own theory of ecofeminism, which has been further enriched and developed by Walker’s poetry. In the thesis I especially focused on a vision of life and its importance for us as well as for future generations. I believe that a balanced relationship among people, nature and any kind of spirit is needed. Then, this relationship should be introduced ideally in non-patriarchal society in a connection with God or any kind of spirit (according to one’s personal beliefs). Finally, I feel that it is necessary to add openness, care, sensitivity and patience in the relationships both towards people as well as towards nature in order to avoid conflicts and harm.

Keywords

Absolute Trust in the Goodness of the Earth, Alice Walker, Ancestral heritage, Christianity, Community, Continuity, Earth, Ecofeminism, Experience, Family, Future, Gerri Bates, God, Home, Hope, Ivone Gebara, Judith Plant, Love, Mother, Nature, Parents, Patriarchal world, Poetry, Power, Religion, Spirit, Vision, Vision of life

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 12. 1. 2009

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 27. 1. 2009
• Supervisor: Mgr. et Mgr. Kateřina Prajznerová, M.A.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Arts

Bachelor programme / field:
Philology / English Language and Literature