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: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
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, emphasizing the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.

Martínez Estrada's "The City and the Dogs" delves into the urbanization of the Pampas and the impact it has on the local communities. Through the eyes of a young boy, the book sheds light on the complexities of social change and the struggle for identity in a rapidly evolving landscape. Gallegos' "The Time of the Hero" portrays the struggles of a rural community in the face of political oppression and environmental degradation.

Rivera's "The City and the Dogs" explores the urbanization of the Pampas and the impact it has on the local communities. Through the eyes of a young boy, the book sheds light on the complexities of social change and the struggle for identity in a rapidly evolving landscape. Guimarães Rosa's "The Green House" is a poignant portrayal of a family's journey through the aftermath of a devastating flood, highlighting the resilience of human spirit and the interconnectedness of nature.

Sarmiento's "The Green House" is a poignant portrayal of a family's journey through the aftermath of a devastating flood, highlighting the resilience of human and the interconnectedness of nature.

In conclusion, the plains of Latin America have not only shaped the cultural landscape of the continent but have also inspired a deep appreciation for the environment. Through the innovative ecocritical readings presented in this book, we gain a fresh perspective on the literary and cultural significance of these natural landscapes, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between humans and the natural world. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of our rapidly changing planet, the insights offered by these works serve as a valuable guide for preserving and celebrating the beauty of our shared heritage.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350235519