A Kristevan Reading of Mine Söğüt's Novels

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2024-4
Çiftci, Zehra
This thesis delves into Mine Söğüt’s novels through the theoretical lens provided by Julia Kristeva, mainly focusing on Kristeva’s concepts of the semiotic and the abject. Söğüt’s narratives are characterized by their exploration of unsettling themes, the portrayal of marginalized women and queer characters, and the incorporation of unconventional narrative elements. As such, this study undertakes both thematic and structural explorations of Söğüt’s works, linking the unsettling themes to Kristeva’s concept of the abject and the unconventional narrative elements to the concept of the semiotic. Through a Kristevan framework, readers are guided to confront the disturbing themes present in Söğüt’s narratives, such as violence, unconventional relationships, and the experiences of marginalized individuals, whether mentally or physically disabled or people conducting nonconventional relationships. Furthermore, the concept of the semiotic elucidates how semiotic ruptures in traditional narrative structures disrupt established norms and values, fostering a rejection of metanarratives. Ultimately, this thesis contends that by applying Kristevan theories, Söğüt’s novels serve as platforms to deconstruct the dominant ideologies and disrupt the status quo. Through their challenge to the established norms, Söğüt’s narratives defy and subvert patriarchy and heteronormativity, thereby advocating for resistance and revolt.
Citation Formats
Z. Çiftci, “A Kristevan Reading of Mine Söğüt’s Novels,” M.S. - Master of Science, Middle East Technical University, 2024.