Environmental Degradation and its Metaphors in Cormac McCarthy's 'The Road’: A comparative study with other prominent Narratives

Abstract

This research provides a comparative literary analysis focusing on Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" within the context of post-apocalyptic literature, emphasizing the novel's unique use of environmental degradation as a central theme. By contrasting McCarthy's work with other prominent narratives in the genre, the study explores the nuanced ways post-apocalyptic literature reflects and influences societal views on environmental issues. "The Road" is distinguished by its stark depiction of a desolate, ash-covered world and its profound exploration of survival's psychological and moral dimensions in the aftermath of an unspecified cataclysm. The analysis reveals McCarthy's subtle yet impactful use of environmental metaphors to delve into themes of hope, despair, human resilience, and the ethical dilemmas survivors face. Through this comparative approach, the research highlights McCarthy's contribution to the broader literary and cultural discourse on environmental degradation, positioning "The Road" as a pivotal work that enriches the genre by emphasizing the interplay between humanity and the natural world. The study underscores the importance of literature in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and the urgent need for collective action in the face of ecological crises.