Abstract

Stephen Koch has argued that Henry James is a writer that is deeply concerned with consciousness (93). Many critics acknowledge James's attention to the metaphysical. What fewer critics have observed is that the study of the metaphysical was not simply an intellectual process for James. Instead, James's study of consciousness often reads like the private experiences of the mystic. Much of the mysticism in James's work comes from his frequent use of monastic images and values. James's use of the monastic image--characterized by the qualities of obedience, silence, celibacy, and escape--explores the limitations and possibilities of consciousness in a more intimate way than would be possible from a purely intellectual exploration of the topic. In this thesis, I argue that an intellectual approach to reading James similarly limits our ability to grasp his conception of consciousness. Instead, I recommend we practice slow reading of James's work and become more intentionally invested in the consciousness of his characters. This will improve our reading experience and deepen our understanding of James's work.

Degree

MA

College and Department

Humanities; English

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2025-04-23

Document Type

Thesis

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/etd13604

Keywords

Henry James, consciousness, monasticism, mysticism, religious experience, metaphysical literature

Language

english

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