Navigating Bias: A Critical Examination of Beverley Brenna’s Select Works
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Date
2024-04
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Abstract
Disability is a pervasive and deeply personal aspect of human existence,
spanning across cultures and epochs. Despite its longstanding presence, the
discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities stems not from inherent
individual biases, but from entrenched social ideologies. However, the scholarly
exploration of disability, particularly within the realm of literature, remains a
relatively nascent field of interdisciplinary inquiry. This Ph.D. thesis aims to delve
into the underexplored domain of disability literary studies, focusing on the works of
Canadian author Beverley Brenna. Notably, Brenna’s unique perspective as both a
writer and a special educator imbues her narratives with a richness derived from
firsthand experience. Her deliberate inclusion of characters with disabilities serves
not only to provide representation for disabled readers but also to cultivate
understanding and normalisation among able-bodied readers. Through an analysis of
selected works by Brenna, this study seeks to illuminate the pervasive influence of
ableism—the systemic discrimination against individuals with disabilities—and
explore avenues for its mitigation. Components such as normativity, stigma, and
inclusivity will be examined to elucidate the complex dynamics of the ability divide
and propose strategies for fostering greater equity and acceptance within society.
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English