Dissertation
'All The Wounded': An investigation into the representation of persons with cerebral palsy in Australian fiction
University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Doctor of Creative Arts, University of the Sunshine Coast
2012
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25907/00626
Abstract
Research into the Australian Literature Resource database reveals that no single novel of Australian adult fiction has been published that portrays protagonists with cerebral palsy or with cerebral palsy as a theme. The creative work 'All The Wounded' responds to this lacuna and the accompanying exegesis details the sociological and literary research that informs an accurate, realistic and empathetic depiction of persons with cerebral palsy. The sociological research includes an examination of disability in the Australian context and consideration of the treatment of persons with disabilities as 'social apartheid'. In providing an overview of Australian Federal and State government legislation relevant to the care and support of persons with disabilities, the guiding principle of 'normalisation' is explained and issues relating to autonomy, accommodation, education, employment and mobility discussed. The subject of disability and sexuality is also of significance to the novel and social relationships, intimacy, sexual expression, sexual abuse, sterilisation and parenthood are topics that are explored. Other sociological research inspiring the novel includes an examination of cerebral palsy as a medical condition and the treatment and care programs provided by Australian community organisations. Finally, an analysis of the evolution of disability theory notes the transitional developments from the 'medical model' of care, the contribution of the prevailing 'socio-contextual' models and the most recent model of 'complex embodiment'.
Details
- Title
- 'All The Wounded': An investigation into the representation of persons with cerebral palsy in Australian fiction
- Authors
- Gary Curtis
- Contributors
- Gary Crew (Supervisor)
- Awarding institution
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Degree awarded
- Doctor of Creative Arts
- Publisher
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- DOI
- 10.25907/00626
- Organisation Unit
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Creative Industries - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450396102621
- Output Type
- Dissertation
Metrics
126 File views/ downloads
930 Record Views