Delve into the unsettling intersection of motherhood and possession with the thought-provoking new book, The Sinful Maternal: Motherhood in Possession Films. This critical analysis, penned by Lauren Rocha, sheds light on the complex portrayal of mothers and motherhood within the horror genre.
Beyond the Physical: A Mother’s Body Redefined
Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery are often depicted as solely physical experiences. Rocha challenges this notion, exploring how these transformative stages impact a woman’s mental and emotional well-being in profound ways. She argues that a mother’s body becomes a “public body,” subject to scrutiny and control from society, family, and even herself. This vulnerability, Rocha posits, creates a fertile ground for the horrors of possession.
A Decade-by-Decade Exploration of Genre Films
The Sinful Maternal dissects ten chilling possession films. That including classics like Rosemary’s Baby, The Exorcist, and The Babadook and modern entries like Hereditary. By meticulously analyzing these films in chronological order, Rocha reveals how sociocultural expectations of motherhood have evolved throughout the decades. She explores how these shifting expectations influence the ways in which mothers are portrayed in horror cinema.
Where Gender Studies Meets Monster Theory
Rocha’s unique approach masterfully blends gender studies with architectural theory, trauma studies, and monster theory. This interdisciplinary lens allows for a nuanced understanding of how possession narratives function as metaphors for the anxieties surrounding female embodiment and the complexities of motherhood. Specifically, Rocha focuses on the treatment of “unruly” female bodies, those that defy societal expectations and norms.
A Must-Read
The Sinful Maternal: Motherhood in Possession Film is a valuable resource for anyone who appreciates horror films and their power to explore societal anxieties. Get your copy now. Are you looking for more horror-centered books? Visit our Book Section!
