A critical study of Starhawk's The Fifth Sacred Thing in the perspective of Hindu Mythology
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This study examines 'The Fifth Sacred Thing' penned by Starhawk, an American ecofeminist writer. This seminar work of Starhawk incorporates the elements of water, earth, air, and fire from nature, augmented by her chosen element, 'Love.' She strongly contends that these five elements (water, earth, air, fire) of nature, along with Love (her personal element), serve as breath and energy necessary for fostering a harmonious relationship between the community and nature. It will establish an emotional connection between humans and nature. She selected 'Love' as the fifth sacred element because of its association with forgiveness and its stronger resonance with women. Both 'earth' and 'love' are intertwined with the protagonist, Maya. This research notably connects the Starhawks' five fundamental principles with the 'Panchabhuta' of Hindu mythology. This paper also endeavors to illustrate how Madrone, a spiritual healer, grapples with her internal conflict between good and evil, as well as forgiveness and retribution, aligning with the divine methods of the Almighty, who may cleanse a corrupted civilization through the 'Second Coming.'
Author: R Manoj Kumar, Syed Yasmeen Taj
Language: English
Subfield: Literature and Literary Theory
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6911792734
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