Connection to nature

Definition

Connection to nature refers to the intrinsic relationship and bond that individuals, communities, and cultures have with the natural world. This concept often highlights how nature shapes identity, influences lifestyle, and inspires artistic expression, illustrating the importance of environmental awareness and ecological harmony.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Connection to nature is a central theme in both Appalachian and Native American literature, often reflecting a deep respect for the land and its resources.
2. In Appalachian literature, nature is frequently depicted as a source of wisdom and resilience, with characters drawn to the mountains as a place of refuge and identity.
3. Native American literature emphasizes harmony with nature, where landscapes are seen as sacred and integral to cultural heritage, often expressing a spiritual connection to the earth.
4. Both literary traditions showcase the impact of industrialization and environmental degradation on traditional ways of life, advocating for a return to simpler, more sustainable practices.
5. This connection often serves as a critique of modern society’s disconnection from nature, calling for greater awareness and stewardship of the environment.

Review Questions

• How does connection to nature manifest in the characters and settings of Appalachian literature?
  • In Appalachian literature, connection to nature is vividly portrayed through characters who find solace and strength in their mountainous surroundings. The landscape often becomes a character itself, shaping the identities and experiences of those who inhabit it. The deep-rooted traditions and practices related to nature reflect a community's reliance on the land for sustenance and cultural identity, highlighting themes of resilience against external pressures such as industrialization.
• Discuss how Native American literature illustrates the spiritual relationship between people and their natural environment.
  • Native American literature often depicts a profound spiritual connection between individuals and nature, portraying landscapes not just as physical spaces but as sacred entities intertwined with cultural narratives. This literature emphasizes themes of stewardship, respect, and interconnectedness, where elements of nature—such as rivers, mountains, and animals—hold significant symbolic meanings. By illustrating this bond, Native American authors advocate for a holistic understanding of existence that values ecological harmony over exploitation.
• Evaluate the impact of industrialization on the themes of connection to nature in both Appalachian and Native American literature.
  • Industrialization has profoundly affected the themes of connection to nature in both Appalachian and Native American literature by introducing conflict between progress and environmental preservation. In both literary traditions, authors often critique industrialization's destructive impact on traditional lifestyles and natural landscapes. This tension prompts a call for reflection on sustainable practices and rekindles awareness about the vital importance of maintaining a deep-rooted relationship with nature, urging society to reconsider its values concerning environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Ecocriticism: A literary and cultural movement that examines the relationship between literature and the physical environment, exploring how texts reflect and influence ecological concerns.

Place-based literature: Literature that emphasizes the significance of specific geographic locations and their natural surroundings, often focusing on how these places shape characters and narratives.

Sustainability: The practice of maintaining ecological balance by utilizing resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.