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Self-Reflexivity and Historiographic Metafiction: The Intersection of Public and Private Spheres in Peter Carey’s True History of the Kelly Gang
Get PDFThis paper examines the intersection of self-reflexivity, historiographic metafiction, and the collapse of the boundaries between the public and private spheres in postmodern literature. Specifically focusing on Peter Carey’s True History of the Kelly Gang, using Linda Hutcheon’s theoretical insights on historiographic metafiction, this study explores how Carey’s narrative dismantles conventional distinctions between private and public realms. The novel portrays the life of Ned Kelly, who is a figure often regarded as a national hero. As the story unfolds, Carey complicates our understanding of memory, truth, and identity. His narrative strategy blurs the lines between the inner, personal world and the outer, public space, thereby suggesting a complex interconnection between the public and the private spaces. This fluidity challenges traditional notions of boundaries concerning historical accounts and their construction of reality. By foregrounding intertextuality and employing metafictional techniques, Carey exemplifies key postmodern characteristics, and she does so mostly by questioning historical narratives and the subjective nature of truth. The paper argues that True History of the Kelly Gang’s self-reflexive nature encourages readers to critically interrogate the roles of history, personal experience, and societal structures in the formation of identity. The paper contends that the novel challenges the conventional understanding of history as a fixed and linear entity, offering instead a fragmented and subjective portrayal of the past. Through its exploration of how personal identity and political history are interconnected, this study enriches our understanding of postmodern literature and highlights the ways such works interrogate historical narratives. In doing so, this study also urges readers to reconsider the complex relationship between memory, truth, and historical representation(s)
Reading Nature in the Select Poems of Jacinta Kerketta
Get PDFNature cannot be separated from tribal life, as they keep moving about the periphery of nature and nature remains the life and blood of their whole existence. Due to the deteriorating condition of the environment the focus of many writers has shifted towards its preservation and protection, to create a balance between human life and nature. The nature has been harmed the most in the process of development and many writers including the tribal writers have acknowledged this issue in their writings. In this paper Jacinta Kerketta’s work, will be examined based on the portrayal of nature in her poems. Kerketta is a prominent Adivasi poet and activist, who weave her poems around the themes of ecology, culture and social injustice; providing a poignant commentary on the consequences of development on tribal communities. She critiques the adverse effects of development on the tribes, by showcasing the displacement, cultural erosion and environmental degradation. The aim of this paper is to showcase these elements through Ecocritical perspective
The First ever Gujarati Translator of a Shakespearean Play – Bhanji Gokul Parekh
Get PDFThe study of translation history is crucial for understanding the choices and influences of translators, both in terms of their personal inclinations and external factors. Unfortunately, in Gujarat, the exploration of translation history has been limited to basic information such as dates, names of translations, and sometimes the names of translators. However, in the Western world, there has been a growing interest in translation history over the past three decades or so. Western scholars have embraced various theories and frameworks that emphasize the importance of investigating different facets of translation history, such as translator identity, patronage, censorship, support mechanisms, interventions, and the selection of texts. Interestingly, translation discussions often focus solely on the text itself, disregarding the translator as a cultural agent who enables the process of translation. By shedding light on the life and context of the translator, new facts and interpretations related to translation history can be discovered. One example of the association between Shakespeare’s plays and Gujarat dates to 1852 when the first adaptation of “Taming of the Shrew” was performed at St. Andrews Library in Surat. Since then, there have been numerous translations and adaptations of Shakespearean plays in Gujarat. However, very little is known about the lives and works of these translators. Bhanji Gokul Parekh is one such translator who rendered Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar into Gujarati, as Karunaras Julius Caesar Natak. Despite being the first translator of Shakespeare’s play, his contribution as a translator has been largely forgotten. Therefore, this paper aims to highlight Parekh’s significant contribution to translation history of Gujarat in the context of Shakespeare’s plays
The Dalit among the Dalits; the Issues of Dalit Women in Bama’s Sangati and Urmila Pawar’s Motherwit
Get PDFThe present research article aims to deal with the intricate interplay between gender and caste as articulated in two seminal literary works— Bama’s Sangati and Urmila Pawar’s Motherwit. It unpacks the manifold layers of marginalization and social exclusion faced by Dalit women in the Indian society, who often find themselves in the interstices, bearing the brunt of both caste and gender-based discrimination. Sangati’s narrative is centered on the collective experiences of Dalit women, weaving in the motifs of resistance and solidarity, whereas Motherwit employs autobiographical accounts to expose the primeval and structural violence inflicted upon the marginalized. Through a critical analysis of the characters, plotlines, and linguistic elements, the study elucidates how both texts subvert the dominant discourse and bring forth the voices that have long been silenced. It scrutinizes the narrative strategies employed by Bama and Urmila Pawar in portraying the complexities of Dalit women’s lives. The plights of Dalit women are not only appendages to their Dalit identity, but constitute a distinct space where caste and gender oppressions conflate. Furthermore, it discusses the empowering aspects of storytelling as a means of social critique and consciousness-raising. Through an intersectional lens, this paper underscores the need for acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges faced by Dalit women in their pursuit of social justice and emancipation
Krishna’s Crucial Role in the Mahabharata: A Divine Catalyst
Get PDFThis paper explores the dominant role Shri Krishna played in the epic Mahabharata, shedding light on his divine incarnation, teachings, and influence. Being a manifestation of divinity himself, Shri Krishna served as a central figure within the Mahabharata narrative— guiding the Pandavas and imparting timeless wisdom through his discourse, the Bhagavad Gita. This exposition immerses itself in exploring the many dimensions that compose the character portrayal of Shri Krishna. Through a thorough examination of his inherent traits, varied involvements, and extraordinary divine playings, this work seeks to shed light on what makes him a captivating figure. It particularly emphasizes his strategic acumen, which enabled him to navigate complexities threading throughout Mahabharata’s storyline, ensuring righteous support offered towards Pandava’s camp and thereby fostering Dharma’s preservation. Lessons surrounding responsibilities, ethics, and virtuousness sent forth from verses contained within the Bhagavad Gita continue inspiring generations. Shri Krishna’s relationships, mainly his bond with Arjuna and the devotion of Radha, exemplify the intense connections he forms with individuals. The paper also explores the legacy and impact of Shri Krishna, emphasizing his influence on Indian philosophy and spirituality. His teachings continue to inspire millions, promoting universal love, harmony, and selfless service. The enduring worship of Shri Krishna reflects the timeless appeal and significance of his character in contemporary times
Representations of Interracial relationships in Voices in the Night and On the Face of the Waters by Flora Annie Steel
Get PDFInterracial relationships and marriages were a controversial matter in colonial India. During the first few decades it was fairly tolerated as a measure of convenience by the British colonial power. But as the years wore on, attitudes began to change and rigidity set in. Such relationships were no longer encouraged and they also entailed many disadvantages for an Anglo-Indian in the social life of Anglo-India. In this article, I have tried to show how Flora Annie Steel, a female Anglo-Indian novelist, has presented interracial relationships at the turn of the 19th century in two of her novels. I have shown that she has remained truthful to reality. By showing such relationships from different perspectives, Flora Annie Steel has proved that such unions were unwanted and undesirable to both the concerned communities in British India
Decoding Identity Crisis and Rejection of Social Norms: A Study of Girish Karnad’s Hayavadana
Get PDFThe present research article aims at analysing the complex narrative of Girish Karnad’s play Hayavadana. The play emphasizes the exploration of women’s identity, autonomy, and resistance against patriarchal norms. It is celebrated for blending of mythical elements with contemporary themes, particularly focusing on women’s pursuit of self-identity and emancipation. The play transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, positioning the play within a global discourse on femininity and societal expectations. It intricately weaves the story of Padmini, a woman caught in a web of desire and societal constraints, highlighting the challenges she faces in seeking fulfillment and autonomy. Through the lens of Padmini’s character, the study explores themes of desire, gender roles, and the quest for a unified self in the face of traditional expectations. Central to the play and the study is the portrayal of the goddess Kali, who represents the subversion of traditional gender roles and the assertion of feminine power. Kali’s intervention in the narrative serves as a pivotal moment for Padmini, allowing her to confront and navigate the constraints imposed by societal norms and expectations. The research highlights Karnad’s use of traditional narratives and characters to critique and challenge societal norms, particularly those related to gender and identity. The play discusses the global contexts. The present study underscores the play’s relevance to ongoing discussions about gender, power, and the legitimacy of women’s aspirations. Karnad’s work emerges as a transformative piece that not only questions established narratives but also proposes a reimagining of women’s roles in society, advocating for a space where women can assert their desires and identity free from patriarchal limitations
The Dual Legacy: Mahasweta Devi as a Reformer and Revolutionary
Get PDFThis article presents an in-depth exploration of Mahasweta Devi’s multifaceted persona— a celebrated author, social activist, and a prominent figure in the realm of socio-political reforms in India. She is known for her rich literary contributions. Her works primarily emphasized the plight and the struggles of the marginalized sections of the society, often acting as a bridge between them and the wider world. For Mahasweta Devi the creation of literature is a solemn and responsible vocation. She uses her art as a weapon to fight against the socio-economic injustice meted out to the marginalized in Indian society. Literature is intrinsic to her advocacy for social justice, establishing Devi as a thoughtful, committed reformer and revolutionary. Her writings are imbued with calls for change and revolution, exhibiting her profound abilities as a writer equipped with a reformist vision and revolutionary determination. Devi is not merely a writer, but a crusader with a mission— a social commitment to the upliftment of tribal communities. Her narratives hold significant social relevance, pushing the contours of contemporary Indian literature with their often radical and provocative themes. Yet, Devi’s influence transcends her literary contributions, reflecting her intense passion as a reformer and revolutionary. Her untiring activism targeted the systemic oppressions entrenched in the Indian society, particularly towards tribals and Dalits. She exposed the blatant violation of human rights, often confronting the authorities, embodying the spirit of a revolutionary. Drawing a trajectory of her influence, the article suggests that Devi’s radicalism, uncompromising in its advocacy for the dispossessed, established her as a reformer, pushing for change at both grassroots and policy levels. Her relentless pursuit for social justice and equality, while shedding light on how her literary works served as tools of resistance and activism. Drawing upon various examples from her seminal works like Draupadi, Rudali, and Mother of 1084, it unravels how her narratives portrayed the unvarnished reality of the oppressed, compelling her readers to confront uncomfortable truths. The article also examines her influence on various contemporary movements and how her ideologies continue to inspire activists and reformers today. It highlights the life and works of Mahasweta Devi, not only as a celebrated author, but also as a fearless reformer and revolutionary activist whose enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and writers in their fight against social injustices
Representing Dissent through Poetry: A Study of Select Poems of Maya Angelou
Get PDFLiterature in general and protest poetry in particular have been vocal about human condition and problems. This article examines Maya Angelou’s representation of dissent in selected poems, using the historical and socio-political context of her life as a lens. It analyses how Angelou’s work, including “Still I Rise,” “Caged Bird,” “Phenomenal Woman,” and some others, articulates resistance against racial, gender, and social inequalities. Through her powerful metaphors, repetitive phrases, and vivid imagery, Angelou defied societal norms and called for change. The study concludes by emphasizing Angelou’s enduring impact and legacy, not just in literature, but also in shaping civil rights discourse and inspiring social change. Her poetry exemplifies how art can be a potent instrument of protest. The article employs language for ‘writing back’, questioning norms, resisting atrocities and creating scope for change. Protest poetry, which is deeply embedded in American history, remains a prominent part of English literary corpus, contributing greatly to African American literature. The category of African American protest poetry is large owing to the huge expanse of time during which it has been written and also because of the great number of poets who have contributed to this form of writing. As a result, African American protest poetry is divided into three sub-categories– the first deals with protest during slavery, the second during segregation and Jim Crow Laws and the third after political obstacles to equality were presumably removed. This paper aims to deliberate on the following questions— what are the prominent themes of African American protest poetry? How have the African American poets used this genre of literature variously during different historical epochs? How are the concerns of female poets different from their male counterparts? What role has protest poetry played in political movements against inequality, social injustice, oppression, segregation etc.? The present paper aims to engage with this seemingly broad area of literature from the feminist and racial perspectives. The paper intends to deal with few important African American protest poets from foundational poets to the contemporary ones
Revitalizing Polemics Through Exile Testimonio in the Select Poems of Jacinta Kerketta
Get PDFExile Testimonio induces a unique frame of mind, the dynamics of which necessitate close examination. Collective sorrow, displacement, and trauma are preserved in the texts of exile testimonio. They recall the past and use that information to imagine or describe their ideal house. De-territorialization provides communities of exile Testimonio with a wellspring of fresh ideas. Historically, people have associated the idea of home with a certain country or region. The emergence of exile testimonio is a strong indication that the notion of home has expanded beyond its traditional one-dimensional and geographical confines. Members feel they have a duty to work together to protect and improve the places they call home. People in any society will always need to rely on one another to fulfill their various requirements. The issue of land alienation has been made worse by incomplete and unreliable land records in a complete state. Since the tribal people tend to be quite trustworthy in both their informal and formal interactions and since they are often deeply in debt, they are often the ones who alienate their land. Tribes have always been marginalized due to the economic interests of more powerful groups. It is important to keep in mind that tribes are embedded inside Indian society, making the issues of purposefully altering or modernizing Indian society broadly relevant to them as well. Tribes had near-total dominion over Forest Land and its fruitful resources prior to independence