NATURAL REFLECTIONS: UNVEILING THE ECOCRITICAL LAYERS IN EAST OF EDEN BY JOHN STEINBECK

Abstract

John Steinbeck’s East of Eden goes beyond just being a great tale because of the complex ecological topics it explores. The purpose of this research paper is to deconstruct the novel’s ecocritical layers by analysing Steinbeck’s use of landscape and environmental components to communicate moral and philosophical thoughts. The article places East of Eden in the context of Steinbeck’s larger environmental philosophy, drawing attention to his profound affinity with nature and ecological concerns. After that, it examines the novel’s lush geography, looking at how the many natural locations shown in the story affect people and what happens. Moreover, the article delves into the themes of memory and the natural environment in the East of Eden, shedding light on how ecological experiences and memories of specific places impact the growth of characters and resonate themes. This study analyses Steinbeck’s use of nature to reflect human nature, morality, and the complexity of life through an analysis of important passages and characters. This article uses ecocritical theory and literary analysis to provide a detailed study of how the East of Eden is an ecological allegory that encourages readers to think about our place in the natural world and the moral consequences of being good stewards of it. In the end, it contends that Steinbeck’s work goes beyond just telling a story and provides deep ecological lessons, making readers question where they fit into the greater biological web of life.