Exploring the Interplay of Nature and Religion in Emily Dickinson’s Poetry
- 1 Department of English Language and Literature, The College of Sakhnin (R.A), Academic College for Teacher Education, Galilee, Israel
Abstract
This research project undertakes a comprehensive examination of the intersection between nature and religion in Emily Dickinson’s poetry. Employing an ecofeminist position, the study meticulously analyzes five pivotal poems: “A Bird came down the Walk”, “A Narrow Fellow in the Grass”, “Because I could not stop for Death”, “Some keep the Sabbath going to Church” and “The World is not Conclusion”. The research includes a comparative analysis, not only within Dickinson’s own body of work but, when pertinent, with the works of other poets sharing similar thematic elements. This dual approach aims to unveil patterns and themes that underscore the intricate interconnectedness of gender, nature, and spirituality within Dickinson’s verses. The findings contribute significantly to existing scholarship by addressing gaps in the literature and illuminating Dickinson’s unique contributions to 19th-century American poetry. The discussion extends beyond historical contexts, emphasizing the relevance of Dickinson’s insights to contemporary discussions on the interplay between nature and religion.
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