Illness Autobiographies: Theoretical Possibilities and Perspectives

Abstract

Illness autobiographies pose challenges to traditional autobiographical criticism and feminist theories. They offer theoretical possibilities and perspective in literary studies and critical theories. Illness autobiographies, with lived body experiences as their center, underscore the importance of body in construction of a self and thus challenge the traditional autobiographical study. Moreover, environmental autopathographies’ emphasis on the inseparability of body and environment contributes to the rise of material feminism.