Animals, Animality and Controversy in Modern Welsh Literature and Culture

Drawing on key concepts and ideas from animal studies, this is the first study of how Welsh literature explores relationships among animals and between humans and animals. Approaching Welsh writing from the perspective of a universe in which all living things are connected, it examines how Welsh authors depict subjects such as intelligence, sensibility and knowledge from an animal perspective.

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This pioneering study introduces readers to key themes from animal studies, as a frame within which it examines the representation of animals and animality in the work of a range of authors. In this new approach to animal studies, the concept of a relational universe that has emerged in recent natural and physical science is argued as being central. With fresh readings of Welsh literary and non-literary publications, including the Welsh press and Welsh-language manuals, the book explores relationships among animals and between humans and animals, to approach subjects such as intelligence, sensibility and knowledge from an animal perspective. The possibility of redrawing and reclaiming a history of rural and industrial Wales is suggested according to an animal history and agenda. This innovative contribution to Welsh and animal studies illuminates fascinating and controversial subjects, including animal domestication, captivity, communication, biopsychology, human exceptionalism, zoos and farming.