Caged: a novel and commentary

The creative component of my thesis seeks to explore themes of human nature and what societal constructs attempt to control the animalistic desires that underpin our enjoyment of violence in media. Specifically, it will look at the tools used to justify violence perpetuated by the novel’s protagonist. Caged follows Dean, a Vietnam War veteran suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He begins experiencing vivid memories that are impossible to distinguish from real life. He sets on a mission to save the only surviving member of his Special Forces unit, Otis, from a hellish prison called The Cage. The novel will explore themes of justification of violence, historical influence on modern prejudice, and mental illness. The auxiliary component of this thesis will provide a commentary on the specific writing conventions that are used in this novel, and the importance of historical accuracy.