A Critical Eco-Linguistic Discourse Analysis of 'The Lorax'

Abstract

Degradation of the environment and ecological crises are increasingly worrying issues people face globally, yet the mainstream narrative paradoxically endorses a dangerously exploitative outlook toward nature. Children’s literature, which greatly impacts growing children, provides a unique groundwork to confront environmental narratives. This paper presents a critical Eco-linguistic discourse analysis (CEDA) of The Lorax by Dr. Seuss. This book is a widely recognized green narrative in children’s literature which can be analyzed through Eco-critical lens. Drawing on Arran Stibbe’s (2015) framework, the study aims to explore the role of language in shaping environmental values, ideologies, and human-nature relationship. This research adopts qualitative discourse analysis method, to analyzing metaphor, identity, agency and linguistic choices in the text. The findings reveal that the metaphors of consumption show nature as a commodity. The Lorax presents criticism of anthropocentric and consumerist ideas. The Once-ler stands for industrial exploitation and ecological irresponsibility. Linguistic choices further emphasize the contrast between anthropocentrism and ecocentrism.  In this story The Lorax character represents ecological agency and speak out against the commodification of nature. The study proposes that sustainable language practices and environmental literacy can be promoted in education by engaging students in eco-critical discussions and eco-centric activities.