IS THAT REALLY WHAT IT'S ABOUT? HOW DOES THE READER INTERPRET THE ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP IN "THE GENEROUS TREE"?

Abstract

The article proposes a social critical re-reading of Shel Silverstein's "The Giving Tree", based on the theory of aesthetics of reception and the concept of residuality. The central theme of the book is the friendship between a boy and a tree, creating the illusion of affection and loyalty. However, with a critical eye and contemporary debates, the dilemma remains whether the relationship presented is positive or can be considered abusive.The objective is, therefore, to investigate the cultural vestiges imposed and accepted in society that hinder a more effective look, and allied to social movements of reinterpretation of bad and criminal historical customs, to synchronize the interpretation of the reading to the current debates.