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Abstract

This dissertation explores the presentation of animals in Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book and The Second Jungle Book. The argument is shaped by critical animal studies and draws on key theories by Derrida and Berger. Derrida's text The Animal That Therefore I Am as well as his theory of deconstruction are key in my reading of The Jungle Books. I explore important ethical and philosophical discussions within animal studies and how this applies to and affects our reading of The Jungle Books. Though Kipling disturbs the human and animal binary through his representation of the animal, he fails in truly granting animals a position of power and inverting the binary. However, through the character of Mowgli, he undermines the existing binary and places the Other in the position of power - urging a reconsideration of the human/animal divide. Mowgli's hybridity is made clear through language, looking and his ability to traverse the human and animal spheres. Language is given to the animals but is revealed to be manipulated by Mowgli undermining Kipling's progressive presentation. Likewise, the subordinate role of the animals is enforced through their inability to meet Mowgli's gaze. The final chapter will explore, in more detail, how the power granted to Mowgli deconstructs the binary through him being Othered.

Course: English Literature - BA (Hons) - C0995

Date Deposited: 2020-02-10

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13539.html