The body – human, humanoid and other – in young adult literature

Anderson, Laura

Abstract

Although a relatively new category of literature, the rapid growth in popularity, diversity, and production of YA (Young Adult) literature over the preceding decades has prompted this thesis to focus on texts released between 1995-2015, a period that coincides with the rise and prevalence of internet use. In a world that is increasingly focused on the digital, the importance YA literature places on the body is significant and worth closer examination.

Using philosophical and literary theories, this work explores how the body creates identity and a concept of self through experience and genetics. The range of bodies within YA literature is vast; the selected texts in this study demonstrate the variety of bodies and how they are used.

Beginning with a critical understanding of the human body, this work will consider how the body forms relationships and identity through choice, biology, and circumstance before expanding from familial to romantic relationships, to contemplate how the body enacts and presents the themes of beauty, sex, sexuality, and gender. The thesis questions how these qualities change, and are challenged, as the body shifts from human to ‘other’. By investigating these non-human bodies, the thesis aims to reach a better understanding of the human condition, and humanity emerges as these cyborgs and supernatural beings allow for reflection on how their bodies differ and what these differences mean. The thesis concludes by discussing how these fictional bodies are transposed into fanfiction and what this reveals about the perceived ownership, use, and purpose of such beings textually and in a wider social context.

Citation

Anderson, L. The body – human, humanoid and other – in young adult literature. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4223110

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Apr 9, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 23, 2023
• Keywords: English
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4223110
• Additional Information: Department of English, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Dec 1, 2019