포스트 아포칼립스 서사와 몸—줄리애나 배곳의 <<퓨어>>를 중심으로

Abstract

In apocalyptic narratives, whatever the cause of the destruction of the Earth, there is always the essential question of whether and how the human body will be represented in a post-apocalyptic society. Focusing on Julianna Baggott’s novel Pure, this article aims to investigate the problems in our society through the body in post-apocalyptic narratives, and reflects on the meaning of human identity. Comparing the body at the center with the body on the periphery, this article reveals how the body’s portrayal in the post-apocalyptic society establishes class hierarchy and represents individual identity. In addition, positive interaction of bodies is shown to not only play an important role in the formation and maintenance of a social system but also affect the existence of society itself. Further, the relationship between the body and the post-apocalyptic society is analyzed to explore the meaning of the human body in such society, as well as the ecological and ethical implications of human beings. This study illuminates the true meaning of the human body in post-apocalyptic narratives, and suggests that blind faith in science and technology, as well as human arrogance, is potentially dangerous for humanity’s future.