Ursula K. Heise, a leading scholar in ecocriticism, explores how literature shapes our understanding of ecological issues. Her work bridges the gap between humanities and natural sciences, emphasizing the importance of global perspectives and cultural diversity in environmental studies.
Heise's key concepts, like and the tension between local and global environmental views, have shaped ecocriticism. Her books, including "" and "," analyze how narratives influence our response to environmental challenges.
Ursula K. Heise background
Ursula K. Heise is a prominent scholar in the fields of ecocriticism and
Her work explores the intersections of literature, culture, and the environment, with a focus on how narratives shape our understanding of ecological issues
Heise's background and academic career have positioned her as a leading voice in the study of environmental literature and theory
Early life and education
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Born in Germany in 1960
Received her Ph.D. in Literature from the University of Munich in 1991
Studied at the University of Cologne and the State University of New York at Buffalo
Her early education and experiences laid the foundation for her interdisciplinary approach to environmental studies
Academic career and positions
Currently Professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Held positions at Stanford University and the University of Washington
Served as President of the Association for the Study of Literature and Environment (ASLE) from 2011 to 2015
Her academic career has been marked by a commitment to bridging the gap between the humanities and the natural sciences in addressing environmental challenges
Ecocriticism and environmental humanities
Ecocriticism is a field of literary and cultural studies that examines the relationship between literature and the environment
Environmental humanities is a broader interdisciplinary field that encompasses ecocriticism, environmental history, environmental philosophy, and other related disciplines
Both fields seek to understand how human culture and the natural world intersect and influence each other
Definition and scope
Ecocriticism analyzes how literature and other cultural texts represent nature, the environment, and ecological issues
It explores how these representations shape our understanding of and relationship to the natural world
Ecocriticism encompasses a wide range of literary genres and periods, from and pastoral poetry to contemporary cli-fi ()
Heise's contributions to field
Heise has played a significant role in expanding the scope and theoretical frameworks of ecocriticism
She has advocated for a more global and comparative approach to environmental literature, moving beyond the traditional focus on American and British texts
Heise has also emphasized the importance of considering issues of social justice, inequality, and cultural diversity in ecocritical analysis
Her work has helped to bridge the gap between ecocriticism and other fields, such as postcolonial studies, science fiction studies, and animal studies
Key concepts in Heise's work
Heise's scholarship is characterized by a set of recurring themes and concepts that have shaped the field of ecocriticism
These concepts reflect her interest in the cultural dimensions of environmental issues and the role of narrative in shaping our understanding of the natural world
Heise's key concepts provide a framework for analyzing the complex relationships between literature, culture, and the environment
Eco-cosmopolitanism
Eco-cosmopolitanism is a term coined by Heise to describe a global, interconnected perspective on environmental issues
It emphasizes the need to think beyond local or national boundaries in addressing ecological challenges
Eco-cosmopolitanism recognizes the shared responsibility of all humans in protecting the planet, while also acknowledging the uneven distribution of environmental risks and benefits
Sense of place vs planet
Heise has explored the tension between a sense of place (attachment to a specific local environment) and a sense of planet (awareness of global ecological interconnectedness)
She argues that both perspectives are necessary for effective environmental activism and stewardship
Heise suggests that literature can help to cultivate a sense of planet by imagining global networks and relationships
Narrative and environmental imagination
Heise emphasizes the role of narrative in shaping our understanding of and response to environmental issues
She argues that stories have the power to create emotional connections, convey complex information, and inspire action
Heise has analyzed how different narrative forms (e.g., realism, science fiction, documentary) can be used to engage with environmental themes
Biodiversity and species extinction
Heise has written extensively about the cultural and ethical dimensions of biodiversity loss and species extinction
She has explored how literature and other cultural texts represent endangered species and the value of biodiversity
Heise has also considered the limitations of existing conservation narratives and the need for new ways of imagining human-animal relationships
Anthropocene and human impact
The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on the Earth's ecosystems
Heise has examined how the concept of the Anthropocene has shaped contemporary environmental discourse and cultural production
She has also explored the ethical and political implications of recognizing human agency in shaping the planet's future
Major works by Heise
Heise has published several influential books that have helped to define the field of ecocriticism and environmental humanities
Her major works reflect her interdisciplinary approach and her engagement with a wide range of literary and cultural texts
Each of these books makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the relationship between literature, culture, and the environment
Sense of Place and Sense of Planet
Published in 2008
Explores the tension between local and global perspectives in environmental literature and activism
Analyzes works by authors such as Leslie Marmon Silko, Karen Tei Yamashita, and Mayra Montero
Argues for the importance of developing a "eco-cosmopolitan" perspective that can bridge the gap between place-based and planet-based approaches
Imagining Extinction
Published in 2016
Examines the cultural and ethical dimensions of species extinction and biodiversity loss
Analyzes a wide range of texts, including science fiction, poetry, and nature documentaries
Considers how different narrative strategies can be used to engage the public with the issue of extinction
Argues for the need to develop new cultural narratives that can help us to imagine and respond to the crisis of biodiversity loss
After Nature: Species Extinction and Modern Culture
Published in 2021
Builds on the themes of Imagining Extinction to explore the cultural afterlife of extinct species
Analyzes how extinct species are represented in literature, art, and popular culture
Considers the ethical and political implications of the way we remember and memorialize extinct species
Argues for the importance of developing new forms of cultural memory that can help us to grapple with the ongoing crisis of extinction
Heise's influence and legacy
Heise's work has had a significant impact on the fields of ecocriticism and environmental humanities
Her ideas have helped to shape the way scholars and activists think about the relationship between culture and the environment
Heise's legacy is one of interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative thinking, and a commitment to using the tools of literary and cultural analysis to address pressing environmental challenges
Impact on ecocriticism
Heise has played a key role in expanding the scope and theoretical frameworks of ecocriticism
Her work has encouraged ecocritics to think beyond the traditional focus on American and British literature and to consider a wider range of cultural texts and perspectives
Heise has also helped to bridge the gap between ecocriticism and other fields, such as postcolonial studies, science fiction studies, and animal studies
Interdisciplinary approaches
Heise's scholarship is characterized by a deeply interdisciplinary approach that draws on insights from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities
She has collaborated with scholars from a wide range of fields, including biology, anthropology, and environmental history
Heise's work demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex environmental challenges
Contemporary environmental discourse
Heise's ideas have helped to shape contemporary environmental discourse beyond the academy
Her concepts of eco-cosmopolitanism, narrative engagement, and the cultural dimensions of extinction have influenced the way activists, policymakers, and the general public think about environmental issues
Heise's work has also contributed to the growing recognition of the importance of the humanities in addressing environmental challenges and imagining sustainable futures
Key Terms to Review (22)
After Nature: Species Extinction and Modern Culture: After Nature: Species Extinction and Modern Culture refers to the complex relationship between human culture, ecological degradation, and the phenomenon of species extinction in the modern era. This concept reflects on how cultural narratives and values shape our understanding of nature, influencing both conservation efforts and attitudes toward biodiversity loss.
Anthropocene and Human Impact: The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch that highlights the significant and lasting impact humans have on the Earth's geology and ecosystems, primarily due to industrialization, urbanization, and environmental changes. This term emphasizes the extent to which human activities have altered natural processes, leading to challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Understanding the Anthropocene encourages a critical examination of humanity's relationship with the environment.
Biocentric narratives: Biocentric narratives prioritize the intrinsic value of all living beings and ecosystems, emphasizing interconnectedness and the ethical responsibility humans have toward non-human life. These narratives challenge anthropocentrism, which views humans as the central or most significant entities, and instead advocate for a holistic perspective that recognizes the importance of biodiversity and ecological systems in storytelling.
Biodiversity and species extinction: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on Earth, encompassing the different species, genetic variations, and ecosystems. Species extinction occurs when a species no longer exists anywhere on the planet, which is often a consequence of habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation. Understanding biodiversity is crucial as it plays a key role in ecosystem stability and resilience, while species extinction has far-reaching impacts on ecological balance and human wellbeing.
Climate fiction: Climate fiction, often referred to as 'cli-fi', is a genre of literature that deals with the impacts of climate change and environmental issues on individuals and society. This genre aims to raise awareness about ecological crises through storytelling, often featuring dystopian or speculative futures that are directly influenced by climatic changes. The narratives often reflect on humanity's relationship with nature, exploring themes of survival, resilience, and moral responsibility in the face of environmental degradation.
Donna Haraway: Donna Haraway is a prominent scholar known for her work in feminist theory, science studies, and cultural criticism, particularly through her influential essay 'A Cyborg Manifesto.' This work explores the intersections of gender, technology, and identity, advocating for a more fluid understanding of subjectivity that transcends traditional boundaries between human and machine. Haraway's ideas resonate with contemporary discussions about ecology and storytelling, making her a key figure in the analysis of modern narratives.
Eco-cosmopolitanism: Eco-cosmopolitanism is an ethical and political framework that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all human beings and the shared responsibility for the planet's ecological health, transcending national borders. This perspective integrates ecological awareness with a cosmopolitan approach, advocating for a global consciousness that recognizes environmental issues as collective challenges that require cooperative solutions.
Eco-critique: Eco-critique is a branch of literary theory that examines the relationship between literature and the environment, emphasizing how nature and ecological concerns are represented in texts. This approach analyzes the ways in which literature reflects, critiques, or challenges human interactions with the natural world, often exploring themes of sustainability, environmental justice, and the impacts of industrialization. It encourages a deeper understanding of how narratives shape our perceptions of nature and ecological issues.
Environmental humanities: Environmental humanities is an interdisciplinary field that studies the relationship between humans and the environment through literature, philosophy, history, and cultural studies. It explores how narratives and cultural practices shape our understanding of nature, environmental issues, and the ethical dimensions of our interactions with the natural world.
Environmental Justice in Literature: Environmental justice in literature refers to the exploration and representation of the intersection between social justice and environmental issues, highlighting how marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation. This concept emphasizes the ethical responsibility to address environmental injustices and often critiques power structures that perpetuate harm against vulnerable populations, using narrative to amplify their voices and experiences.
Globalization in literature: Globalization in literature refers to the interconnectedness of literary texts across cultural and national boundaries, influenced by the processes of globalization. This concept emphasizes how literature is shaped by and responds to global cultural exchanges, economic forces, and technological advancements. It allows for a deeper understanding of how narratives are not only produced in one location but also circulate and interact globally, fostering a diverse literary landscape.
Glocalization: Glocalization is the process of integrating global and local factors to create a hybrid cultural experience that respects local traditions while embracing global influences. This term highlights the complex interplay between globalization and local cultures, as it recognizes that global practices can be adapted to fit local contexts, resulting in unique cultural expressions that reflect both global trends and local identities.
Imagining extinction: Imagining extinction refers to the process of envisioning the possible disappearance of species, cultures, or environments, often prompting reflections on human responsibility and ecological futures. This concept connects deeply with how narratives and artistic expressions can shape perceptions of loss and the urgency for environmental awareness, urging society to confront the implications of extinction not just as a fact but as a potential reality that may alter human existence and identity.
Intertextual Analysis: Intertextual analysis is a critical approach that examines the relationship between texts and how they reference or influence one another. This method emphasizes that texts do not exist in isolation but are interconnected through a web of cultural, historical, and literary contexts. It encourages readers to consider how meanings can shift based on these interrelationships and the broader narratives they participate in.
Narrative and environmental imagination: Narrative and environmental imagination refers to the ability to create and understand stories that connect human experiences to ecological contexts. This concept emphasizes how narratives shape our perceptions of the environment, influencing our relationships with nature and how we address environmental issues through storytelling.
Narrative theory: Narrative theory is a framework for understanding how stories are structured and how they function within various contexts, emphasizing the relationship between the narrative and its audience. It explores elements such as plot, character, setting, and point of view, while also considering the cultural and social implications of storytelling. This theory delves into how narratives shape human experience and perception.
Nature writing: Nature writing is a literary genre that focuses on the relationship between humans and the natural world, often emphasizing observation, reflection, and appreciation of nature. This genre challenges anthropocentric views by showcasing the intrinsic value of nature and exploring the interconnectedness of all living things.
Posthumanism: Posthumanism is a philosophical perspective that challenges the traditional understanding of what it means to be human, often exploring the implications of technology, biology, and the environment on human existence. It reconsiders human agency and identity in the context of non-human actors, ecological systems, and technological advancements, inviting a more inclusive worldview that emphasizes interconnectedness.
Sense of Place and Sense of Planet: Sense of place refers to the emotional and experiential connections individuals have to specific locations, shaped by personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and social interactions. In contrast, sense of planet encompasses a broader understanding of global interconnectedness and environmental awareness, emphasizing the relationships between people and the Earth as a whole. Together, these concepts highlight how local identities and global realities influence our perceptions and actions regarding the environment.
Sustainability in literature: Sustainability in literature refers to the exploration of ecological, social, and economic factors that promote a balanced and enduring relationship between humans and their environment. This concept extends beyond mere environmental themes, addressing how narratives can influence readers' perceptions of sustainability and inspire action towards a more equitable and viable future.
Theory of affect: The theory of affect explores how emotions and feelings influence human experiences, social interactions, and cultural phenomena. It delves into the ways in which affect shapes our understanding of texts, relationships, and the world around us, emphasizing the emotional resonance that can emerge from narratives and representations.
Transnationalism: Transnationalism refers to the interconnectedness of people, cultures, and economies across national boundaries, emphasizing the fluid nature of identity and belonging in a globalized world. This concept acknowledges that individuals and communities often maintain multiple identities and ties to more than one nation, reshaping how we understand cultural exchange, migration, and the impact of global forces on local contexts.