Ecofeminism and the Representation of Nature in the Novels of Margaret Atwood

This paper examines the representation of nature through an ecofeminist lens in the selected novels of Margaret Atwood, one of the most prominent contemporary writers concerned with environmental and gender issues. Ecofeminism, as a critical framework, establishes a parallel between the exploitation of women and the degradation of nature within patriarchal societies. Atwood’s fiction frequently depicts dystopian landscapes, ecological crises, and the marginalization of female voices, thereby highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental destruction and gender oppression. Focusing on novels such as Surfacing, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Oryx and Crake, the study analyzes how Atwood portrays nature not merely as a physical setting but as a symbolic and moral force that reflects human ethical responsibility toward the environment. The paper further explores how female characters in these texts develop ecological awareness and resistance against systems of domination that threaten both women and the natural world. By employing ecofeminist theory, the research demonstrates that Atwood advocates for a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, emphasizing sustainability, care, and respect for ecological balance. Ultimately, the study argues that Atwood’s novels serve as powerful literary interventions that encourage readers to reconsider the ethical implications of environmental exploitation and gender inequality in the modern world.

Keywords: Ecofeminism; Margaret Atwood; Nature; Gender; Environment; Patriarchy, Ecological Awareness; Sustainability