Trauma and Literature in an Age of Globalization

This book explores trauma theory in an age of globalization by means of comparative literature, asking how literary studies and the literary anticipate, imagine, or theorize the current global climate. It examines how literary works address issues such as borders, language, inequality, and institutionalized violence and how they impact our lived experience and its representation in language and literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

While globalization is often associated with economic and social progress, it has also brought forth

new forms of terrorism, permanent states of emergency, demographic displacement, climate change, and other natural disasters. Given these contemporary concerns, one might also view the current time as an age of traumatism. Yet, what—or how—does the traumatic event mean in an age of global catastrophe? This volume explores trauma theory in an age of globalization by means of the practice of comparative literature. The essays and interviews in this volume ask how literary studies and the literary anticipate, imagine, or theorize the current global climate, especially in an age when the links between violence, amorphous traumatic events, and economic concerns are felt increasingly in everyday experience.

Trauma and Literature in an Age of Globalization turns a literary perspective upon the most urgent issues of globalization—problems of borders, language, inequality, and institutionalized violence—and considers from a variety of perspectives how such events impact our lived experience and its representation in language and literature.

The concept of trauma has gained increasing attention in recent years as a result of the widespread impact of globalization on societies around the world. Trauma refers to the psychological and physical effects of severe and prolonged stress, often caused by events such as natural disasters, wars, and interpersonal violence. In an age of globalization, where borders are increasingly blurred and interconnectedness is greater than ever before, the effects of trauma can be felt on a global scale.

One of the most significant ways in which globalization has impacted trauma is through the increased frequency and severity of natural disasters. Climate change, caused by human activities such as greenhouse gas emissions, has led to more frequent and intense weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts. These disasters can cause widespread destruction, loss of life, and displacement of populations, leading to trauma and psychological distress.

Another way in which globalization has impacted trauma is through the spread of violent extremism. The rise of terrorist organizations such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda has led to the spread of violent ideologies and the recruitment of individuals from diverse backgrounds. The use of violence as a means of political and social change has caused significant trauma and suffering to communities around the world, particularly those living in conflict zones.

Globalization has also contributed to the displacement of populations due to conflict and economic migration. Millions of people have been forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, or economic hardship, leading to trauma and social disintegration. The displacement of populations can also lead to the spread of infectious diseases and the breakdown of social structures, further exacerbating the effects of trauma.

In addition to the direct effects of trauma, globalization has also had indirect effects on trauma. The media, for example, has played a significant role in shaping public perceptions of trauma and its impact. The constant coverage of violent events and the sensationalization of trauma can lead to a desensitization of the public to the suffering of others, making it difficult to address the root causes of trauma and promote healing.

Despite the challenges posed by globalization, there are also opportunities for trauma to be addressed and healing to occur. One of the most significant opportunities is through the practice of comparative literature. Comparative literature allows us to explore the ways in which different cultures and societies experience and respond to trauma, and to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and communities.

Through comparative literature, we can see how different cultures and societies have responded to trauma in different ways. For example, some cultures have developed traditional healing practices such as storytelling, music, and dance to help individuals cope with trauma and promote healing. In contrast, other cultures have turned to Western medical models of trauma treatment, which often focus on symptom management and medication.

Comparative literature can also help us to develop new ways of understanding and responding to trauma. For example, some scholars have argued that the concept of trauma is too narrow and Western-centric, and that it fails to recognize the diverse ways in which individuals and communities experience and respond to trauma. By comparing different cultures and societies, we can develop a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of trauma and its impact.

In conclusion, globalization has had a significant impact on trauma, both directly and indirectly. Through the practice of comparative literature, we can explore the ways in which different cultures and societies experience and respond to trauma, and develop new ways of understanding and responding to trauma. By promoting a deeper understanding of the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and communities, we can work towards building a more just and compassionate world.

Weight: 384g
Dimension: 152 x 226 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367520816