Explain the theme of race in a passage to india?
.jpg "Explain the theme of race in a passage to india?")
Question: Explain the theme of race in a passage to india?
The theme of race is one of the most prominent and controversial aspects of E.M. Forster's novel A Passage to India. The novel depicts the racial discrimination and prejudice that characterized the British colonial rule in India, and the impact it had on the relationships between the English and the Indians. Forster shows how race and culture shape the perceptions and behaviors of both groups, creating a divide that is hard to bridge.
One of the main sources of racial tension in the novel is the different attitudes that the English and the Indians have towards each other. The English generally view themselves as superior to the Indians, and treat them with contempt and condescension. They see India as a backward and uncivilized country that needs their guidance and control. They also tend to stereotype and generalize the Indians, ignoring their diversity and individuality. For example, Ronny Heaslop, Adela Quested's fiancé, says that "they all become exactly the same—not worse, not better. I give any Englishman two years" .
The Indians, on the other hand, have a mixed and ambivalent attitude towards the English. Some of them admire and respect the English for their education and culture, and seek to emulate them or cooperate with them. Others resent and distrust the English for their oppression and exploitation, and want to resist or overthrow them. Some of them are also curious and friendly towards the English, and hope to establish a genuine friendship with them. However, they often face disappointment and disillusionment when they encounter the racism and hostility of the English. For example, Dr. Aziz, one of the main Indian characters, is initially fond of Mrs. Moore, an elderly English lady who shows him kindness and respect. However, he later becomes bitter and cynical when he is falsely accused of assaulting Adela Quested in a cave .
The theme of race also affects the way that the characters interact with their own culture and identity. The English tend to isolate themselves from the Indian society, living in segregated clubs and bungalows. They also try to maintain their sense of Englishness by following their customs and traditions, such as playing polo or attending church. However, some of them also feel alienated and unhappy in India, feeling that they have lost touch with their true selves. For example, Adela Quested feels dissatisfied with her engagement to Ronny Heaslop, who has become more rigid and arrogant in India . She also feels confused and restless in India, feeling that she does not belong there .
The Indians also struggle with their cultural identity in relation to the English influence. Some of them try to adopt the English ways of life, such as wearing Western clothes or speaking English. However, they often face ridicule or rejection from both sides, as they are seen as neither fully Indian nor fully English. For example, Mr. Fielding, an English schoolmaster who is sympathetic to the Indians, mocks Mr. Turton, an English official who wears Indian clothes . On the other hand, some Indians try to preserve their own culture and traditions, such as practicing their religion or celebrating their festivals. However, they also face difficulties in reconciling their differences among themselves, as India is a diverse and complex country with many religions, languages, castes, and regions .
In conclusion, the theme of race is a central and complex issue in A Passage to India. It shows how race and culture shape the way that people see themselves and others, creating barriers and conflicts that are hard to overcome. It also shows how people cope with their racial identity in a colonial context, facing challenges and dilemmas that affect their personal and social lives.
Rjwala is your freely Ai Social Learning Platform. here our team solve your academic problems daily.
0 Komentar
Post a Comment