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Title of the thesis: Eläimyys materiaalis-diskursiivisena ilmiönä – Teatterieläimen jäljillä tekijänä, tutkijana ja katsojana 

Thesis defender: Pipsa Keski-Hakuni 
Opponent: Dr. Katri Tanskanen, University of Helsinki
Custos: Prof. Outi Lahtinen, Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture

The research examines the staging of animality in the performing arts. The topic is approached from a posthumanist perspective, within the framework of Western culture, from the positions of a researcher, artisan, and theater professional. The staging of animality is studied as a phenomenon in which many social, cultural, ecological and material phenomena are intertwined. The researcher is part of this intertwining and intra-action of the phenomenon. The research has examined the topic within the framework of material ecocriticism, in which the human and the non-human, materiality and discursiveness, textuality and visuality are intertwined. In conclusion, it has been shown that the study of materiality leads towards an understanding of non-human agency and ecological development. By developing ecocritical reading, we can also critically examine the animal discourse in the performing arts — how animals are represented and what is represented by animals. The research contributes to the current discussion about biodiversity crisis and leads to reflection on interspecies relationships in theatrical performances.

Key words: ecocriticism, material ecocriticism, staged animality

Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at . 

Contact information: 

pipsa.anarkia@gmail.com