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| Eco Criticism: Environmental Concerns in English Literature |
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Author Name Sandeep Kumar Mahto Research Scholar Department of English YBN University, Ranchi Abstract Eco-criticism, an interdisciplinary field linking literature and environmental studies, examines the representation of nature and ecological issues in literary texts. This paper explores how English literature—from Romantic poetry to contemporary fiction—engages with environmental concerns, reflecting shifting human attitudes toward the natural world. By analyzing works of authors such as William Wordsworth, John Clare, Margaret Atwood, and Amitav Ghosh, the study highlights how literature functions both as a mirror of environmental degradation and as a catalyst for ecological awareness. Romantic and pastoral traditions often idealize nature, portraying it as a source of spiritual renewal, while modern and postmodern narratives frequently depict ecological crises such as climate change, deforestation, and species extinction. Through thematic and stylistic devices including imagery, symbolism, and allegory, writers address issues of sustainability, anthropocentrism, and environmental justice. Eco-criticism also emphasizes the interconnectedness of human and non-human life, challenging exploitative cultural narratives and advocating for ethical coexistence. The paper argues that literature, by shaping readers’ perceptions and emotions, plays a vital role in promoting environmental consciousness and inspiring collective action. Ultimately, eco-critical readings reveal that environmental concerns are not peripheral but central to understanding human history, identity, and survival. This study underscores the need for integrating ecological perspectives into literary analysis, making English literature a valuable medium for addressing the urgent environmental challenges of the 21st century.
Keywords: Eco-criticism, Environmental Literature, Sustainability, Nature Writing, Climate change, Anthropocentrism, Ecological justice Published On : 2026-04-12 Article Download :
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