Degree Name
MA (Master of Arts)
Program
English
Date of Award
8-2002
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Frederick O. Waage
Committee Members
Edwin W. Williams, Roberta Herrin
Abstract
This thesis consists of a collection of short stories stylistically reminiscent of the works of James Joyce yet with an Appalachian and feminist voice. Waiting for Mary Jane should appeal to readers interested in experimental styles as well as feminist and Appalachian literature. The protagonist of the collection is Mary Jane, a female from present day East Tennessee. The reader experiences her life from age three to thirty. The introduction to the collection explores the link between James Joyce, Appalachia, Feminist writing, and the short stories. Structurally and thematically the collection reflects the works of James Joyce by using the concept of epiphany and experimental styles evolving from Joyce's Ulysses. As Mary Jane ages she changes from a pre-teen who longs for male acceptance from all surrounding men, including her farmer father, to a grown woman whose mental well-being is far more important than her outward appearance.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Wright, Lorie Ann, "Waiting for Mary Jane: A Collection of Modern Appalachian Short Stories in the Joycean Tradition." (2002). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 700. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/700
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.