Abstract
Inspired by an interest in folklore, biology, and ecocriticism, this collection of dramatic monologue poetry seeks to develop voices for animals native to North America by drawing on their unique biological and mythic characteristics. The complex issues surrounding the use of anthropomorphism in biology and literature are examined, with the conclusion that while anthropomorphic portrayals of animals are fundamentally fictitious and should not be treated as reality, they are useful to the extent that they translate animal behavior into something we can recognize and therefore better understand and sympathize with.
Advisor
Bourne, Daniel
Department
English
Recommended Citation
Killian, Eryn Coffman, "How to Know the Animals: a Field Guide in Poetry" (2012). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 451.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/451
Disciplines
Fiction
Keywords
anthropomorphism, prosopopoeia, dramatic monologue, poetry, animals, ecocriticism
Publication Date
2012
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2012 Eryn Coffman Killian