Anthropocene: Approaches and Contexts for Literature and the Humanities

The Anthropocene is a concept that has gained prominence in many fields, including the humanities and social sciences. It refers to the current geological epoch, beginning when human activities began to have a significant impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. This collection explores the importance of the Anthropocene to the humanities, including new approaches and insights, narratives and critiques, and the study of literature of the Anthropocene. It provides concise overviews of particular approaches and texts, making it useful for teachers and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Anthropocene, meaning The Age of Humans, has rapidly emerged as a dominant concept across numerous fields. Initially embraced by the natural sciences, it has now gained widespread recognition in the humanities and social sciences, where it has sparked a comprehensive assessment and critique. This essay explores the significance of the Anthropocene in the humanities, the unique approaches and insights it offers, the narratives and critiques it generates, and the meaning of studying literature of the Anthropocene.

The Anthropocene has gained importance in the humanities due to its ability to shed light on the profound impact of human activities on Earth's geology, ecosystems, and human societies. It challenges traditional narratives of human-nature relations and encourages a more nuanced understanding of our place in the world. The humanities offer a range of approaches to studying the Anthropocene, including environmental humanities, queer theory, and race. These approaches provide valuable insights into the complex relationships between humans, other species, and the environment, challenging assumptions and promoting empathy and understanding.

One of the key contributions of the humanities to the Anthropocene discourse is the development of new narratives and critiques. Humanities scholars have explored the ethical and social implications of the Anthropocene, questioning the sustainability of current practices and advocating for a more just and sustainable future. They have also examined the role of literature and art in shaping our understanding of the Anthropocene, exploring how they can convey the urgency and complexity of the crisis and inspire action.

Studying literature of the Anthropocene involves exploring how writers and artists have responded to the challenges and opportunities posed by the Anthropocene. It involves analyzing the ways in which literature and art depict the impact of human activities on the environment, the human body, and human societies. It also involves examining the ways in which literature and art challenge traditional narratives of human-nature relations and promote alternative visions of a more sustainable and just future.

In conclusion, the Anthropocene has emerged as a dominant concept in numerous fields, and its significance in the humanities is undeniable. The humanities offer unique perspectives and insights into the impact of human activities on the environment, society, and the human body. They provide valuable narratives and critiques of the Anthropocene, challenging assumptions and promoting a more sustainable and just future. Studying literature of the Anthropocene involves exploring how writers and artists have responded to the challenges and opportunities posed by the Anthropocene, and it is an important area of research for scholars and students alike.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367558376