Literary Feminist Ecologies of American and Caribbean Expansionism: Errand into the Wilderness

This book explores how women authors have crafted counter-narratives at the intersection of metaphorical and literal landscapes of colonization, synthesizing ecofeminist theory, American studies, and postcolonial theory to interrogate the ethic of Puritanical expansionism at the heart of the U.S. empire. It focuses on literature from the United States and the Caribbean, charting the contrast between Americas earliest idyllic visions and the subsequent reality of unprecedented violence against women of color and the environment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book is a groundbreaking exploration of ecofeminist theory, American studies, and postcolonial theory, delving into the profound ethical implications of Puritanical expansionism at the heart of the U.S. empire. Spanos' concept of the " errand into the wilderness" encompasses the relentless westward expansion driven by Manifest Destiny, which resulted in the colonization of Native Americans, non-whites, women, and the land. Through a comprehensive synthesis of these diverse disciplines, the project seeks to unravel the enduring legacy of this expansionist ethic.

The book takes a multi-faceted approach, examining how women writers have articulated the effects of this historical errand throughout different periods and genres. It spans from the slave narratives of Sojourner Truth, Harriet E. Wilson, and Harriet Jacobs to contemporary works by Toni Morrison, Maryse Condé, Edwidge Danticat, and Native American writer Linda Hogan. By transcending geographical and temporal boundaries, the book constructs a theoretical framework for understanding how women authors create counter-narratives at the intersection of metaphorical and literal landscapes of colonization.

One of the central themes of the book is the stark contrast between the initial idyllic visions of the Americas and the harsh reality that emerged. It highlights an era of unprecedented violence against women of color and the environment, reflecting the devastating consequences of colonialism and exploitation. The study of canonical writers presents an essential and illuminating analysis of American mythologies that continue to shape our cultural landscape today. It serves as a valuable discussion text for students, scholars, and researchers in environmental humanities, ecofeminism, and postcolonial studies, offering insights into the complex interplay between gender, race, and power in the construction of American identity.

In conclusion, this book is a seminal contribution to the fields of ecofeminism, American studies, and postcolonial theory. It sheds light on the ethical dimensions of historical events and provides a rich framework for understanding the ongoing impact of colonialism on gender, race, and the environment. By exploring the narratives of women writers and the contrast between idealized visions and harsh realities, it offers valuable insights into the complexities of American history and culture. This study will undoubtedly inspire further research and dialogue, contributing to our collective understanding of the world.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032230115