More Than One Shape: Unity Among Fred Chappell's Varied Literary Works

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Date

2004-01-12

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Abstract

The purpose of the research has been to develop a theory of unity between Fred Chappell's prose and poetry. His works thematically range from Southern gothic, regional Appalachian, magical realist, and science fiction. One application of this theory of unity has been explored through the idea of a common heroic character. Another application of this theory of unity has been explored through the reliance on fantasy during the hero's journey in the search for truth. But there is a danger in fictive realities — they can both hinder and help the hero reach his goal. Ultimately Chappell's more regional works predominately use fantasy to allow a protagonist to gain truth in self-knowledge while his more gothic and science fiction works tend to use fantasy in order to lead the hero away from truth.

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Keywords

Dagon, Fred Chappell, I Am One of You Forever, Midquest, Brighten the Corner Where You Are, Look Back All the Green Valley, More Shapes Than One, Farewell I'm Bound to Leave You

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Degree

MA

Discipline

English

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