Date of Award:
8-2017
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Arts (MA)
Department:
English
Committee Chair(s)
Charles Waugh
Committee
Charles Waugh
Committee
Benjamin Gunsberg
Committee
Brock Dethier
Abstract
The creative writing is preceded by a critical introduction that explores the history of the steampunk genre, the YA literature movement, and many novels and short stories in both genres. The critical introduction establishes genre guidelines and expectations, as well as provides examples for important qualities of the genre.
The nature of the story required additional research into steam engines, WWI history, the RMS Olympic, tree climbing ascension techniques, and various other subjects. This informal research was used to improve the descriptions of technology in the creative work, as well as the naval terminology and battle tactics performed by steam powered ships before and during the first World War. Though not a historical novel, this information assists in building a believable steampunk world.
In this section of the novel, the protagonist, Annie, grows from a victim of circumstance to a person of decisiveness. After falling into a well, Annie rescues herself by means of mechanical genius. She’s then taken by an invading army to an airship, the R101, on which she grows from child to young adult, and overcomes the loss of her parents. She is given the opportunity to escape with another conscript, who takes her to join a band of rebels labeled as pirates by the governing authority. Ultimately, she uses her mechanical skill to produce an automaton army on behalf of the rebels, and as she witnesses their destructive power, she realizes the severity of the consequence of her decision.
Checksum
c8078e24e8298eb7af93a712e66fc504
Recommended Citation
Cragun, Hailey, "Sky Rising: An Examination of YA Steampunk Literature Exploring Themes of Prejudice, Power, and Morality" (2017). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 6248.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/6248
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