Reading Slaughter: Abattoir Fictions, Space, and Empathy in Late Modernity

Reading Slaughter: Abattoir Fictions, Space, and Empathy in Late Modernity explores how the isolation and concealment of slaughter from society affect literary readings and depictions of slaughter and abattoirs, and how these depictions can create an avenue for empathic reactions or reflections on human-animal relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 279 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Reading Slaughter: Abattoir Fictions, Space, and Empathy in Late Modernity delves into the examination of literary representations of slaughterhouses, spanning from the emergence of the industrial abattoir in the late nineteenth century to the present day. The book specifically explores the impact of the growing isolation and concealment of slaughter from society on interpretations and depictions of slaughter and abattoirs in literature, as well as the extent to which portrayals of animal slaughter offer a platform for empathic responses from the reader or provide an opportunity for introspection into human-animal relations. By examining chapters on abattoir fictions in relation to narrative empathy, anthropomorphism, urban spaces, rural spaces, human identities, and horror fiction, Sune Borkfelt makes valuable contributions to ongoing debates in literary animal studies, human-animal studies, and related fields.

Reading Slaughter: Abattoir Fictions, Space, and Empathy in Late Modernity delves into the examination of literary representations of slaughterhouses, spanning from the emergence of the industrial abattoir in the late nineteenth century to the present day. The book specifically explores the impact of the growing isolation and concealment of slaughter from society on interpretations and depictions of slaughter and abattoirs in literature, as well as the extent to which portrayals of animal slaughter offer a platform for empathic responses from the reader or provide an opportunity for introspection into human-animal relations. By examining chapters on abattoir fictions in relation to narrative empathy, anthropomorphism, urban spaces, rural spaces, human identities, and horror fiction, Sune Borkfelt makes valuable contributions to ongoing debates in literary animal studies, human-animal studies, and related fields.

The book's central argument revolves around the notion that the increasing isolation and concealment of slaughter from society have profound effects on how slaughter and abattoirs are perceived and depicted in literature. As slaughter becomes more hidden and removed from everyday life, it becomes less visible and accessible to the general public, leading to a sense of detachment and disconnection from the animal world. This, in turn, affects the way in which writers and artists portray slaughter and abattoirs, as they are forced to navigate a complex web of ethical and moral considerations.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of empathy in shaping our understanding of slaughter and abattoirs. The author argues that depictions of animal slaughter can evoke empathic responses in the reader, allowing them to connect with the suffering of the animals involved. This, in turn, can lead to a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between humans and animals and the ethical dilemmas surrounding their treatment.

The book also examines the ways in which slaughter and abattoirs are depicted in different literary genres and contexts. For example, it explores the use of abattoir fictions in narrative empathy, where characters are forced to confront the realities of slaughter and the ethical implications of their actions. It also looks at the role of anthropomorphism in shaping our perceptions of animals, particularly in the context of slaughter and abattoirs.

Furthermore, the book explores the impact of urban and rural spaces on the depiction of slaughter and abattoirs. It argues that the urban environment, with its crowded and chaotic nature, can create a sense of detachment and disconnection from the animal world, while the rural environment, with its open spaces and natural beauty, can provide a more intimate and emotional connection to animals.

In conclusion, Reading Slaughter: Abattoir Fictions, Space, and Empathy in Late Modernity is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the complex relationship between slaughter, abattoirs, and empathy. By examining the ways in which literature portrays these subjects, the book offers valuable insights into the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding animal slaughter and the complex relationships between humans and animals. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of literature, animal studies, and ethics.

Weight: 503g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030989149
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022