Colonial Echoes and Eco-centric Resonance in Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam Trilogy

Abstract

Ecocentrism is an ethical and philosophical perspective that places intrinsic value on the environment and the natural world, independent of its utility to humans. Ecocentrism contrasts with anthropocentrism, which prioritizes human interests and well-being above all else. In other words, ecocentrism emphasizes the intrinsic worth of ecosystems, species, and individual organisms, as well as the interconnectedness of all living things. Historically, colonialism often led to the exploitation of natural resources in colonized regions. European colonial powers frequently extracted timber, minerals, and other resources from their colonies, resulting in deforestation, soil degradation, and environmental damage. Postcolonial scholars and environmentalists have explored how these exploitative practices have had long-lasting ecological impacts. Margaret Atwood is known for her versatile writing style, which seamlessly traverses various literary genres and forms. Her works often blend elements of speculative fiction, dystopia, historical fiction, and realism, showcasing her mastery in creating vivid and thought-provoking narratives. This paper delves into the multifaceted ecological, ethical, and societal themes prevalent in Margaret Atwood’s renowned MaddAddam Trilogy. The research problem centers on the examination of colonial echoes, the shift from anthropocentrism to ecocentrism, the influence of belief systems on ecological values, ethical dilemmas in postcolonial, ecocentric contexts, and the impact on reader consciousness. Atwood’s trilogy eloquently portrays a dystopian world shaped by environmental exploitation, genetic manipulation, and societal upheaval. The narrative intricately weaves together the remnants of colonialism with an urgent call to rediscover humanity’s interconnectedness with nature. The text explores textual evidence and critical analysis from Atwood’s works, emphasizing the significance of character transformations, belief systems, and ethical quandaries in shaping ecocentric values.