The Ecofeminist Imagination: A Study of Virginia Woolf's Ecological Consciousness

Abstract

This thesis examines ecofeminist literature, a genre that transcends traditional boundaries by intertwining environmental concerns with feminist perspectives. This study focuses on the analysis of the relationships between nature, gender, and power within ecofeminist literature, taking as a case point Virginia Woolf’s fiction. The aim of this research is to investigate how ecofeminist authors employ narrative techniques, symbolism, and language to convey the intricate relationships between gender and the environment. The study begins by delving into the historical roots of ecofeminism, tracing its evolution as a response to the interconnected oppressions of women and nature. By scrutinizing the portrayal of female characters in ecofeminist texts and their interactions with nature, the research elucidates the nuanced ways in which the literature challenges patriarchal structures that contribute to ecological degradation. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of scholarship on ecofeminist literature by offering a nuanced understanding of the ways in which it challenges and transforms societal perceptions of nature, gender, and power. By weaving together the threads of environmentalism and feminism, ecofeminist literature emerges as a potent force for change, inspiring readers to reconsider their roles within the intricate web of life and fostering a more harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world.