Xenophobia and Mechanisms of Coexistence in Post-Apocalyptic World: A Study of Cormac McCarthy's The Road

Abstract

The demeanours of coexistence and phobic conditions of the post-apocalyptic world in Cormac McCarthy's The Road (2006) are what this paper revolves around. This study discusses the nature of human relationships in a time of catastrophic destruction. It examines how the fears from unknown events and individuals would contribute to holding back the interaction of humans and how coexistence should take shape at all levels of the apocalypse. The study aims to illustrate the impact of a disaster in bringing trepidation and its role in the demise of coexistence subsequently. However, it further aims at sustaining the concept of coexistence and then promoting the concepts of solidarity and progression in a frightful world void of humanity and ethical values. The results of the research revealed that tolerance, altruism and adaptability with the 'other' are the most considered mechanisms for achieving coexistence. It underlines that people should behave morally and humanely and that coexistence is the criteria for life to go on. In short, The Road is a novel that recounts a contemporary, almost realistic story that reveals premonitions of extinction. Yet and throughout its discourse, it discloses thoughts of tolerance and attitudes of coexistence. McCarthy projects the light on the inscrutable scenes and static interactions of people through post-apocalyptic time. However, in his narrative manoeuvre between good and evil, life and death and fear and courage, he could revive the spirit of coexistence for his characters and in the sight of his readers as well.