Fixed Identities in a Changing World? Mobility as a Catalyst for Eco-Heroism (PDF)

Academic Paper from the year 2019 in the subject Didactics for the subject English - Literature, Works, grade: 1,3, University of Bamberg, language: English, abstract: In my paper I want to investigate the connection between mobility and ecoheroism, because I want to find out whether mental and physical mobility can be seen as a catalyst for starting an eco-journey. I want to show that Barbara Kingsolver's protagonist Dellarobia is an eco-heroine driven by her mental and physical mobility throughout the book, which is started by an environmental abnormality: the appearance of Monarch Butterflies.

I examine the realities of climate change as they are presented in "Flight Behavior" and how Dellarobia's starting recognition
that climate change exists corresponds with her understanding of natural processes and unfair power dynamics. Dellarobia frees herself from the dualistic culture and the restrictions of motherhood, because she is realizing the truths and effects of climate change and want to create a better future for others -her kids. Her personal growth as an independent woman comes through her transformation into an environmentally aware individual.

My investigation is supposed to help readers understand the importance of mobility for eco-heroism not only as a catalyst for Dellarobia becoming an eco-heroine, but I would argue, that recognizing the protagonist¿s development in "Flight Behaviour" [sic.] as a reader, helps to overcome denial of climate change, activates concern and creates awareness.