DefinePK

DefinePK hosts the largest index of Pakistani journals, research articles, news headlines, and videos. It also offers chapter-level book search.

An Eco-Linguistic Study of Kang’s The Vegetarian


Article Information

Title: An Eco-Linguistic Study of Kang’s The Vegetarian

Authors: Nusrat Sultana, Zareena Qasim

Journal: Journal of Human Dynamics(JHD)

HEC Recognition History
Category From To
Y 2024-10-01 2025-12-31

Publisher: AgroTech Innovations (SMC-Private) Limited

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2023

Volume: 1

Issue: 2

Language: English

DOI: 10.55627/jhd.001.02.0729

Keywords: SoulFreedomSoilNatureEco-LinguisticsEcofeminismLifeMaleFemaleTree

Categories

Abstract

This research aims to explore the relationship of human language with nature. Mainly, the present research strives to inquire the natural world language used in ‘The Vegetarian’, by Han Kang, a psycho-social novel about a female protagonist and her life situations. The corpus tool AntConc has been used to find the metaphors with the help of keywords in context. It is found out that women and natural resources like trees are harnessed by men for their benefits. Women are more in control of men who do not allow women to enjoy fresh air, rain, sunlight and fragrance. The trees are more free as compared to women. The protagonist’s desire to become a tree is a try to feel naturally normal that is better than to be a woman. The males are found to follow their natural instincts and controlling the same in women. But the novel concludes that nature and women are tired of misuse and it may be destructive for the survival of the universe if positive changes will not be initiated.


Research Objective

To explore the relationship between human language and nature in Han Kang's "The Vegetarian," focusing on the language used to depict the natural world and its connection to the female protagonist's experiences.


Methodology

Qualitative analysis of Han Kang's "The Vegetarian" using an eco-linguistic and eco-feminist theoretical framework. The corpus tool AntConc was used to identify metaphors and keywords in context.

Methodology Flowchart
                        graph TD
A[Select Novel: 'The Vegetarian'] --> B[Apply Eco-linguistic & Eco-feminist Framework];
B --> C[Identify Key Metaphors & Themes];
C --> D[Use AntConc for Corpus Analysis];
D --> E[Analyze Language & Context];
E --> F[Interpret Findings & Draw Conclusions];                    

Discussion

The study discusses how language reflects societal dualities in relation to gender and nature. It explores the concept of "otherness" and how women and nature are often objectified for male benefit. The analysis of metaphors reveals the interconnectedness of women, nature, and patriarchal structures.


Key Findings

The research found that women and natural resources are often exploited by men. The protagonist's desire to become a tree symbolizes a longing for natural normalcy. Nature and women are portrayed as being tired of misuse, suggesting potential destructive consequences if positive changes are not implemented.


Conclusion

The study concludes that an eco-linguistic and eco-feminist analysis of "The Vegetarian" provides insights into the relationship between language, culture, and the exploitation of women and nature. It suggests that a shift towards a more natural and equitable treatment of women is necessary for societal well-being.


Fact Check

1. The novel "The Vegetarian" is authored by Han Kang. Confirmed by the text.
2. The term "ecofeminism" was coined by Françoise d'Eaubonne in 1974. Confirmed by the text.
3. The corpus tool AntConc version 4.1.4 was used for data collection and analysis. Confirmed by the text.


Mind Map

Loading PDF...

Loading Statistics...