Issue Details

The Allegory of Contagion and Disease: Imagining Socio - Political and Moral Decay in Select Contemporary Fiction

ABSTRACT

In contemporary fiction, the allegory of contagion and disease serves as a compelling metaphor to examine socio-political and moral decay, drawing upon the pervasive fears and uncertainties associated with real-world epidemics. This paper investigates how select works of modern literature employ this allegory to explore intricate societal issues, ethical dilemmas, and political upheavals. By weaving vivid narratives of interconnectedness and community impact, these works shed light on human behavior in times of crisis. The study traces the roots of this literary device to classical works like Boccaccio’s The Decameron and Defoe’s A Journal of the Plague Year, illustrating its evolution from historical depictions of pestilence to its adaptation in the context of contemporary anxieties. Set against the backdrop of globalization, urbanization, and technological advancements, modern fiction reflects the heightened potential for contagion—both literal and metaphorical. The rapid spread of ideas and ideologies in the digital age further complicates the narrative, as social media and digital communication blur distinctions between fact and propaganda. By analyzing these themes, this paper offers insights into the human condition and the ripple effects of collective actions in an interconnected world.

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