Understanding the Umwelt From the Page to the Stage
Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
Beulig, Alfred
Keywords
Theater, Animal Behavior, Umwelt
Area of Concentration
Biology
Abstract
The Umwelt, as coined by Jakob von Uexkull, is a complex and baffling term that refers to the subjective realities of other animals. In this thesis it is my desire to explore the concept of the Umwelt, and in doing so come to a better understanding of its meaning. In the first section I look at the Umwelt theory in regards to its biological, semiotic, and philosophical implications. I highlight the empirical ways in which von Uexkull approached his Umwelt studies and stress the importance for modem day ethologists to do the same thing. In the second section I take a different approach to understanding the Umwelt and suggest that the stage, or theater in general, is a viable place to represent the subjective realities of other animals. I propose an alternative form of Umwelt penetration called Umwelt Theater.
Recommended Citation
Wagner, April, "Understanding the Umwelt From the Page to the Stage" (2003). Theses & ETDs. 3330.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3330