The Sinful Maternal

This book analyzes motherhood through the lens of possession in films, exploring how female identity is shaped and challenged in various narratives.

In The Sinful Maternal, Lauren Rocha delves into the complex intersections of gender studies, architectural theory, trauma studies, and monster theory, with a keen focus on the portrayal of female bodies. She explores how motherhood serves as a fertile ground for possession, influencing and reshaping identities. The experiences of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery are examined in depth, highlighting how these significant life events have historically been minimized or ignored in discussions about women's health. Rocha argues that a mother’s body transforms into a public entity, shared among family and society, making it a prime target for invasive forces.

The book critically analyzes ten possession films, including notable titles such as Rosemary’s Baby, The Exorcist, The Babadook, and Hereditary. Each chapter dissects the contributions of directors like James Wan, Jennifer Kent, Robert Eggers, and Ari Aster, revealing how their cinematic techniques create rich narratives of possession that reflect various dimensions of motherhood and female agency. By placing these films in chronological order, Rocha draws connections between sociocultural influences and the evolving expectations placed on women and mothers.

Ultimately, The Sinful Maternal illustrates how the theme of possession serves as a powerful lens to critique and challenge the traditional notions of performative motherhood. Through her insightful analysis, Rocha empowers readers to reconsider the implications of motherhood and the ways in which it can be both a source of strength and a site of struggle for women.