Disability theory in literary analysis examines the representation of disability in cultural texts, challenging ableist narratives and stereotypes. It draws from the social model of disability, differentiating between 'impairment' and 'disability' as social barriers. The theory critiques societal attitudes, promotes inclusivity, and intersects with race, gender, and sexuality in works like 'Richard III' and 'Daredevil'.
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Disability theory differentiates between 'impairment' and 'disability' and examines how societal barriers restrict people with impairments
Evolution and Influence
Critical disability theory evolved from disability studies and the disability rights movement, challenging ableism and advocating for a more inclusive understanding of human identity
Interdisciplinary Approach
Critical disability theory draws from civil rights discourse and examines disability as a category of analysis alongside race, class, gender, and sexuality
Disability theory critiques the medical model for overlooking societal barriers and advocates for the social model, which posits that it is society's barriers that disable people with impairments
Disability theory scrutinizes the portrayal of disability in literature and media, considering its impact on societal perceptions and the perpetuation of stereotypes
Shakespeare's "Richard III"
The character of Richard III exemplifies the varied use of disability as a narrative element, often signifying villainy
Dickens' "A Christmas Carol"
The character of Tiny Tim represents the innocent and helpless stereotype often associated with disability
Marvel's "Daredevil"
The character of Matt Murdock/Daredevil challenges traditional portrayals of disability by showcasing extraordinary abilities
Disability theory allows for a critical examination of how disability is represented in literature and its broader implications
By analyzing characters and narratives through the principles of disability theory, readers can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of disability and challenge ableist narratives
"The Disability Studies Reader" edited by Lennard J. Davis
This anthology offers a broad introduction to disability theory through various scholarly essays
"Narrative Prosthesis: Disability and the Dependencies of Discourse" by David T. Mitchell and Sharon L. Snyder
This book investigates the role of disability as a narrative crutch
"Bodyminds Reimagined: (Dis)ability, Race, and Gender in Black Women’s Speculative Fiction" by Sami Schalk
This book explores the intersections of disability with race and gender in literature
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The social model of disability distinguishes 'impairment' from 'disability', the latter being the ______ that limit individuals with impairments.
social and environmental barriers
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Characters in works like Shakespeare's '______', Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol', and Marvel's 'Daredevil' are studied for their depiction of disability.
Richard III
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Origin of Critical Disability Theory
Evolved from disability studies and rights movement; gained prominence late 20th century.
