Date of Graduation
Fall 2012
Degree
Master of Arts in English
Department
English
Committee Chair
Marianthe Karanikas
Abstract
This thesis is comprised of a collection of creative nonfiction essays that build on the central theme of female self-image and how that self-image is influenced by outside factors, in particular male figures. To a great extent, the collection adheres to the tradition of the mental illness memoir. Earlier pieces follow my personal experience with anorexia nervosa from the disorder's onset through the process of recovery, while later pieces explore how male relationships have impacted—and continue to impact—my evaluation of my body and overall self-worth. I conclude by connecting my experiences to the experiences of other women, situating body image issues within the context of our culture.
Keywords
creative nonfiction, memoir, mental illness, anorexia, body image, sexism, family dysfunction
Subject Categories
English Language and Literature
Copyright
© Heather Cook
Recommended Citation
Cook, Heather, "Posing Pretty" (2012). MSU Graduate Theses/Dissertations. 1123.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/1123
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