Abstract
Through an examination of the texts of William Byrd II and Thomas Jefferson, I consider appetite as an instrument of self-construction in relation to two poles of male identity: the patriarch and the libertine. Byrd and Jefferson's public images as patriarchs are complicated by an examination of their private texts which reveal a decidedly libertine tendency. These two men compose texts (and personae) relative to socially accepted notions of appetite.Chapter One discusses the composition of works written for introspective purposes, arguably private works--commonplace books, scrapbooks, diaries, and letters-in an effort to distinguish the ways in which appetite operates in the construction of self. In coterie writings produced for intimate audiences, these men display intemperance while also acknowledging public scrutiny. This representation of appetite in a range of texts demonstrates a privately libertine identity.
Chapter Two argues that the representation of passion (which can be seen as a corollary to appetite) in public texts is performed to show a disciplined persona. To demonstrate control over appetite, Byrd and Jefferson, when writing for the public sphere, present passionate topics in a cavalier way. This presentation of public works creates personae of temperance which differs greatly from the represented selves established in their private writings.
| Date of Award | 2008 |
|---|---|
| Original language | American English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | Angela Vietto (Supervisor) |
ASJC Scopus Subject Areas
- Literature and Literary Theory