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Thesis entitled: A MONSTER THAT NEVER TRULY LEAVES: REPRESENTING DEPRESSION IN YOUNG ADULT FANTASY LITERATURE

Abstract: This thesis examines the portrayal of depression in young adult (ages 12-18) fantasy fiction, with a focus on monsters as metaphors for depression. Depressive symptoms often exist as background in young adult fantasy, or as temporary afflictions until the conflict of the story is resolved. In reality, depression is far from a quirky character trait, and has no magical “cure.” My introductory essay examines fantasy as a vehicle for exploring difficult topics such as mental health issues. I investigate the benefits and drawbacks of portraying depression as a metaphorical monster, consider the concept of bibliotherapy, and explain the reasoning behind my own plot devices. In Limbo, my novella, I portray two teenage characters: one is experiencing depression before the story begins, and the second only experiences depressive symptoms as a direct result of the story’s monster. Limbo was written with the intent of both informing readers who have never experienced depression before of its potential effects on a person, and giving readers currently experiencing depressive symptoms a name for what haunts them.

Defence Committee:  
Chair: Dr. Greg Halseth, University of Northern British Columbia  
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Budde, University of Northern British Columbia  
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Kristen Guest, University of Northern British Columbia  
Committee Member: Dr. Sherry Beaumont, University of Northern British Columbia  
External Examiner: Dr. Si Transken, University of Northern British Columbia