Date of Award
5-11-2026
Document Type
Thesis
First Advisor
Pamela Decker-Wright
Second Advisor
Christopher Heuer
Third Advisor
Kristen Harmon
Abstract
This honors capstone project centered on existing deaf literature sets the stage for further storytelling projects using creative worldbuilding details written in an encyclopedic informational text. Across a fledgling life spent reading hearing fiction, a shortage of deaf literature has not gone unnoticed. To start addressing this shortage, this project collects necessary information to support further writings/publications of deaf literature. A review of American Signed Language and deaf/disabled representation in literary format shows that various strategies are employed to represent the language and people within their culture. The review identified examples of unique or distinct approaches used for various characters' language modes as well as identities, such as ASL Gloss or a hybridized version of ASL in written English. This project also surveyed influential fiction upon the author's reading and writing experiences to provide the background of the details being incorporated into the "Gej Encyclos” worldbuilding project. Gej, the developing literary universe, incorporates known scientific laws and develops unique takes on existing mythos to set itself apart from existing science fiction and fantasy literatures. Ultimately, the "Gej Encyclos" project serves as both a culmination of personal and cultural exploration and a launch point for long-term storytelling that authentically reflects Deaf lives in imaginative contexts.
Recommended Citation
Scott, Frederick, "Worldbuilding a Place for the Deaf: an Encyclopedic Approach to Writing Inclusive Narratives" (2026). Undergraduate University Honors Capstones. 146.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/honors_capstones/146
Comments
This capstone resulted in a creative product. As a result, due to the request of the author, the creative product has been removed from this capstone.
The author has created a Living Database of Deaf Literature available in Zotero here. It is continually being updated.