Ecofeminist Perspectives on The Vegetarian: Exploration, Reconstruction, and Liberation of Female Self-Identity

Zhuxuan Zhang

doi:10.54097/3nt7tz38

Authors

Zhuxuan Zhang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/3nt7tz38

Keywords:

Ecofeminism, Female Self-identity, The Vegetarian

Abstract

This paper, grounded in ecofeminism, explores the processes of female self-identity exploration, reconstruction, and liberation as depicted in Han Kang’s novel The Vegetarian. It begins by analyzing the metaphorical connection between women and nature, uncovering the shared oppression faced by both under patriarchal systems and its underlying causes. Through the protagonist Yeong-hye’s narrative, the paper examines the pathways of self-identity reconstruction achieved through resistance to societal norms and a return to nature. Finally, it discusses the ecological insights derived from Yeong-hye’s journey of self-liberation, emphasizing that female emancipation entails not only individual resistance but also a profound reconsideration and reconstruction of the human-nature relationship. The Vegetarian, through Yeong-hye’s transformation, demonstrates the literary praxis of ecofeminism and offers new perspectives and insights for contemporary gender studies.

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