Environmental Consciousness in Modern English Literature

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze the portrayal of environmental awareness in contemporary English literature and evaluate the extent to which these narratives shape and mirror societal perspectives on ecological matters. This study employed a qualitative research design and utilized narrative and thematic analysis to explore selected works of modern English literature. The selection of texts was made considering their publication dates, focusing on the 20th and 21st centuries. Additionally, the texts were chosen based on their relevance to environmental themes and the diversity in authorial background, aiming to encompass a wide range of perspectives. The method utilized a thorough examination of the text, focusing on significant passages, literary techniques, and recurring themes with great precision and attention to detail. The analysis uncovered a diverse range of environmental themes intertwined within the realm of contemporary English literature. Themes such as the Anthropocene, sustainability, and complex human-nature interactions took center stage, highlighting literature's ability to not only mirror current ecological concerns but also actively contribute to environmental discussions.