An ecofeminist aproach to ursula K. Le Guin's novels

In this thesis a path extending from the roots of ecological and feminist movements to ecofeminism is explored. A profound connection has existed between woman and nature from the ancient times to the present. Since the Neolithic era that archaic Paleolithic connection between woman and nature and the intrinsic value of both have been negated. Ecofeminism, adopting the affirmation and clarification of the aforesaid connection as a core principle, rejects all sorts of otherizing thinking, which has led to war-mongering ideologies and colonizing practices. In fact, the aim of this thesis is to show the oppression to which woman and nature are exposed and the possibility of reversing this negated connection with an ecofeminist approach. In practice and theory, taking on this task, ecofeminism shows that another world is possible often with the help of rewriting and science fiction in the field of literature. Ursula Kroeber Le Guin's literary contributions to ecofeminist literature deploy both of the techniques of rewriting and the genre of science fiction. In this thesis, three of her works will exemplify the efforts to challenge the negation of nature and women. Her Lavinia as an example of rewriting, The Word is For World is Forest and Always Coming Home as examples of science fiction, provide ecofeminist perspectives. With ecofeminist points of view, three of the novels function as a warning demonstrating the results of the paths selected by patriarchal and capitalistic practices that extend to the present day that not only devalue women and nature but also threaten all life forms on earth. Key words: Ecofeminism, Ursula K. Le Guin, Woman, Nature, Lavinia, The Word for World is Forest, Always Coming Home