ENGLISH 400: MONSTER THEORY
Harper Reese
Research Paper Abstract
"Queerness and Isolation in The Devourers"
Why do Das’ werewolves distance themselves so deeply from humanity? Supposedly they are “ruled by desire,” (p. 102) but what gulf of difference really does that draw between them and human beings? Did Makedon, who detests humankind, not begin life as a human? The werewolves show they’re capable of restraint: they live in groups, hold conversations, and write memoirs. They view themselves as more than human, and they live separate from humans. And yet, there are no totally irreconcilable differences between the werewolves
and humans. They live on the outskirts as if by choice. With the lens of queer studies, I will be looking at the factors of difference that make Das’ werewolves choose to be isolated from humanity. I believe the disconnect is really a purely arbitrary and self-imposed disconnect.
For better or worse, one of the fundamental characteristics of humanity is that of cooperation and competition between constantly shifting in-groups and out-groups. Even minor differences on broad levels will be spun by each group into bases for group affiliation. When two groups view the arbitrary schism between them as irreparable, especially if the out-group is a clear minority (hence queer studies), the out-group is made monstrous. This is presumably what happened to the various groups of werewolves seen in The Devourers, or is what they fear will inevitably happen when humans see the vast gulf of difference between them and shout “Eek! A monster!”
Capstone Presentation
"Girlbossing too Close to the Sun: Grendel's Dam as Embodied Transience"
Grendel’s Dam is a monster to the Anglo-Saxons because of her existential threat to life and the body. Being both a source of life and a cause of death (dismembering and decapitating her victims), Grendel’s Dam has carved out a space at both ends of life, and is therefore a terrifying monster to behold. What saves Beowulf (briefly, but not ultimately) is the interlocking chains of his armor, a representation of the very community that the Geats fear Grendel’s Dam will destroy.