Imagining the Plains of Latin America: An Ecocritical Study

The plains of Latin America have inspired literature and culture, and this book explores innovative ecocritical readings of canonical literary texts from the 19th century to the present, developing a transnational understanding of Hispanic culture and expanding the scope of the contemporary environmental humanities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Spanning from the expansive Pampas lowlands of Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil to the breathtaking Altiplano plateau that traverses between Chile and Peru, the vast plains of Latin America have left an indelible mark on the continent's literature and culture. This captivating book takes center stage in highlighting these natural landscapes as a central theme within Latin American culture. By delving into innovative ecocritical interpretations of canonical literary works from the 19th century to the present, it offers a fresh perspective on the cultural significance of these landscapes. Through the exploration of these natural landscapes transcending national boundaries, the book fosters a novel transnational understanding of Hispanic culture in South America, broadening the horizons of the contemporary environmental humanities.

The texts covered in this comprehensive study encompass a diverse range of works by renowned authors such as Ciro Alegría, Manoel de Barros, Ezequiel Martínez Estrada, Rómulo Gallegos, José Eustasio Rivera, João Guimarães Rosa, and Domingo Sarmiento. Each of these authors has skillfully woven their narratives within the backdrop of these awe-inspiring landscapes, creating a rich tapestry of literary expressions that resonate with the essence of Latin America.

The Pampas lowlands, with their vast expanses of fertile soil and vibrant wildlife, serve as the backdrop for Alegría's masterpiece "The House of the Spirits." Here, the plains become a symbol of resilience and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. De Barros' "The Garden of the Gods" explores the spiritual connections between humans and nature, highlighting the delicate balance between civilization and the natural world.

Martínez Estrada's "The City and the Dogs" delves into the urbanization of the Pampas and the impact it has on the lives of its inhabitants. Through the eyes of a street dog, the novel offers a poignant critique of social inequality and the human-animal relationship. Gallegos' "The Time of the Hero" portrays the struggles of a rural community in the aftermath of a devastating flood, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy.

Rivera's "The City and the Dogs" explores the urbanization of the Pampas and the impact it has on the lives of its inhabitants. Through the eyes of a street dog, the novel offers a poignant critique of social inequality and the human-animal relationship. Gallegos' "The Time of the Hero" portrays the struggles of a rural community in the aftermath of a devastating flood, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy.

Sarmiento's "The Green House" is a poignant portrayal of the lives of a family living in a remote rural community. Set against the backdrop of the Andean mountains, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships.

In conclusion, the plains of Latin America have not only shaped the literature and culture of the continent but have also inspired innovative ecocritical readings that broaden our understanding of Hispanic culture and the environment. Through the lens of these canonical literary works, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between humans, nature, and the broader world. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Latin American culture and its relationship with the natural world.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 164 x 240 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350134294