Biocentrism, Eco-Identities and Environmental Peace in Gouverneurs de la rosée by Jacques Roumain

Abstract

Even if Gouverneurs de la rosée by Jacques Roumain has been well studied by Caribbeanist critics, I consider that the ultimate ecocritics readings of this novel with huge ecological implications still not enough. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to enlighten the ethical system of biocentric and ecocentric values that defines its characters’ identities, both individually and collectively. I will study the symbolism of the ecosystem where the conflict takes place (the fictitious town of Fonds-Rouge) and how this ecosystem is one of the novel’s main characters. In addition, I will pay special attention to the figure of Manuel, who returns from Cuba and finds his native land into a terrible drought. In order to save his people (in a broad sense) from death, Manuel will have to explore the hills searching for water, hoping to be able to govern it with justice and ensure the peaceful survival of his community through the restoration of its socio-environmental balance.