Degree Type
Thesis
Date of Award
2010
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
English
First Advisor
Kathleen K. Hickok
Abstract
This thesis analyzes identity in Toni Morrison's "Paradise." I argue that identity is portrayed as informed by relationships of the self and the other. Relying on Lacan's notion of the mirror phase I point out that the other is depicted as mirrored in the self. Employing Levinas's notions of totality and infinity I highlight portrayals of the self mirrored in the other - as when the self views the other through the self's self-conception or worldview. I conclude that "Paradise" challenges the universal individual to consider and respond to his or her co-constructed identity with the other person.
Copyright Owner
Vida De Voss
Copyright Date
2010
Language
en
Date Available
2012-04-30
File Format
application/pdf
File Size
60 pages
Recommended Citation
De Voss, Vida, "The Identity Challenge in Toni Morrison's "Paradise"" (2010). Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 11613.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/etd/11613
Included in
American Literature Commons, Literature in English, North America Commons, Literature in English, North America, Ethnic and Cultural Minority Commons
