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Full-Text Articles in Arts and Humanities
Engaging "Apolitical" Adolescents: Analyzing The Popularity And Educational Potential Of Dystopian Literature Post-9/11, Melissa R. Ames
Engaging "Apolitical" Adolescents: Analyzing The Popularity And Educational Potential Of Dystopian Literature Post-9/11, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
Although dystopian novels have been prevalent under the young adult banner for decades, their abundance and popularity post-9/11 is noteworthy. The 21st century has found academics and laypersons alike discussing the supposed political apathy of young adults and teenagers of the Millennial Generation. However, despite this common complaint—and contrary to ample research that indicates that this age group has traditionally been uninterested in global politics—the reading preferences of this generation indicate that this label of "apolitical" may not be as fitting as some believe. In fact, the popularity of young adult dystopian literature, which is ripe with these political themes, …
Bodies Of Debt: Interrogating The Costs Of Technological Progress, Scientific Advancement, And Social Conquests Through Dystopian Literature, Melissa R. Ames
Bodies Of Debt: Interrogating The Costs Of Technological Progress, Scientific Advancement, And Social Conquests Through Dystopian Literature, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
This essay discusses the successes and challenges of teaching a particular cross-curricular course that focused on controversial issues appearing in scientific research and dystopian literature. The course studied narratives that wrestle with ethical concerns surrounding “progress” (societal achievements, technological advancement, scientific discoveries, and so forth). Contemporary debates and specific issues addressed throughout this course included cloning, stem cell research, black market organ transplants, human trafficking, surveillance technology, euthanasia, and capital punishment. In alignment with research concerning best practices in teaching social responsibility topics, this course was centered on a set of inquiry questions that stretched across all units, texts, and …
Women & Language: Essays On Gendered Communication Across Media, Melissa R. Ames
Women & Language: Essays On Gendered Communication Across Media, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
The present volume of essays examines women's communication as it has evolved historically across multiple mediums. Part I explores how women became "gossip girls" and the important role of gossip in the perception and practice of female communication. Essays in Part II cover the convergence of oral and written communication in women's literature. Gendered performance in such arenas as salsa dance, Dr. Phil and the Internet is examined in Part III, and essays in Part IV discuss women's communication in the technology-rich 21st century. This excerpt features the introduction and one essay from the co-editor.
Twilight Follows Tradition: Analyzing "Biting" Critiques Of Vampire Narratives For Their Portrayals Of Gender & Sexuality, Melissa R. Ames
Twilight Follows Tradition: Analyzing "Biting" Critiques Of Vampire Narratives For Their Portrayals Of Gender & Sexuality, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
Vampires have dominated print literature since the 18th century, eventually becoming more visible as they crossed mediated boundaries and genre divides. Now flourishing in neo-gothic realms like science fiction and fantasy, in print genres like chick-lit and young adult, and in the visual realm (from Hollywood’s big screen to daytime television’s sudsy small screen), vampire narratives are finding increased popularity. Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series has shined a new spotlight on the all-encompassing umbrella genre that is “vamp lit,” and with it has come renewed attention to the so-called anti-feminist messages present in such narratives, such as the perceived negative characterization …
Vamping Up Sex: Audience, Age, & Portrayals Of Sexuality In Vampire Narratives, Melissa R. Ames
Vamping Up Sex: Audience, Age, & Portrayals Of Sexuality In Vampire Narratives, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
No abstract provided.
Memoirs Of A Bathroom Stall: The Women’S Lavatory As Crying Room, Confessional, And Sanctuary, Melissa R. Ames
Memoirs Of A Bathroom Stall: The Women’S Lavatory As Crying Room, Confessional, And Sanctuary, Melissa R. Ames
Melissa A. Ames
This article studies literary works that feature gender performance scenes that take place in women's restrooms. The ways in which female characters in Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak, J.D. Salinger's Franny & Zooey, and Clare Luce Boothe's The Women utilize the private space of the women's bathroom.