‘magical realism’ with examples from texts/films

                                                                                             

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-15)

Comparative Literature: Theory and Practice

ASSIGNMENT 

Course Code: MEG-15 

5. Explain ‘magical realism’ with examples from texts/films you have read/seen.

Magical realism is a literary genre that blends magical elements with a realistic setting. It is characterized by a blending of the ordinary and the extraordinary, and often involves the use of magical or supernatural elements in a way that is not overtly fantastical or surreal. In magical realism, the magic is often presented as a matter of fact, and is seamlessly integrated into the narrative. One of the most famous examples of magical realism is Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude." 

The novel tells the story of the Buendia family over the course of several generations, and is set in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel is filled with magical elements, including a woman who ascends into heaven, a boy who is born with the tail of a pig, and a character who lives for over 200 years. However, these elements are presented in a matter-of-fact way, and are seamlessly integrated into the narrative. The novel uses magical realism to explore themes of time, memory, and the cyclical nature of history.

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What is ‘inter-literariness’? Explain with relevant examples

                                                                                            

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-15)

Comparative Literature: Theory and Practice

ASSIGNMENT 

Course Code: MEG-15 

4. What is ‘inter-literariness’? Explain with relevant examples.

Inter-literariness is a concept that refers to the interconnectedness of different literary works, and the ways in which they influence and are influenced by one another. It is the idea that all literature is connected, and that literary works are not created in isolation, but are shaped by the literary traditions and cultural contexts that came before them. One of the most prominent examples of inter-literariness is the influence of the Bible on Western literature. 

The Bible has had a profound impact on literature throughout history, and its stories and themes have been adapted and reinterpreted in countless works of fiction and poetry. One of the most famous examples of this is John Milton's "Paradise Lost," which is a retelling of the  biblical story of Adam and Eve. The poem explores themes of sin, temptation, and redemption, and is considered one of the greatest works of English literature. Another example is Ernest Hemingway's "The Old Man and the Sea," which draws heavily on Christian symbolism and imagery to explore themes of struggle, perseverance, and sacrifice.

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Select a book/story you have read which has also been turned into a film and see how the change of presentation has affected the work

                                                                                           

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-15)

Comparative Literature: Theory and Practice

ASSIGNMENT 

Course Code: MEG-15 

3. Select a book/story you have read which has also been turned into a film and see how the change of presentation has affected the work.

One of the most well-known examples of a book that has been adapted into a film is "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The novel was first published in 1925 and has since been adapted into several films, with the most recent being the 2013 adaptation directed by Baz Luhrmann. In this essay, I will examine how the change of presentation from book to film has affected the work and the ways in which the filmmakers have adapted the story for the screen. One of the most significant changes in the film adaptation of "The Great Gatsby" is the visual presentation of the story. 

While Fitzgerald's novel is known for its vivid and lyrical prose, Luhrmann's film is characterized by its extravagant and visually stunning set pieces. The film is set in the 1920s, the same time period as the novel, but Luhrmann's version of the story is characterized by its use of modern technology, such as CGI and 3D effects, to create a heightened sense of spectacle. The film's elaborate party scenes, for example, are more extravagant than those described in the novel, with an abundance of glitter, confetti, and fireworks.

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What do you understand by “telling” and “re-telling”? Illustrate

                                                                                          

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-15)

Comparative Literature: Theory and Practice

ASSIGNMENT 

Course Code: MEG-15 

2. What do you understand by “telling” and “re-telling”? Illustrate

Telling and re-telling are two key concepts in the study of literature, and refer to the different ways in which stories can be narrated and retold. Telling refers to the original telling of a story, while re-telling involves the process of revisiting and retelling a story in a different form or from a different perspective. In this essay, I will explore the concepts of telling and re-telling in literature and provide examples of how they can be used to create new meanings and interpretations. 

Telling is the original way in which a story is narrated, and typically refers to the first instance in which a story is put into words. Telling is the act of creating a narrative from scratch and is often associated with the creation of new stories or myths. For example, the original telling of the story of Odysseus in Homer's "The Odyssey" would be considered the telling of the story, as it was the first time the story was put into writing.

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How does the study of comparative literature affect our understanding of world literature?

                                                                                          

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-15)

Comparative Literature: Theory and Practice

ASSIGNMENT 

Course Code: MEG-15 

1. How does the study of comparative literature affect our understanding of world literature?

The study of comparative literature can significantly enhance our understanding of world literature by enabling us to explore the similarities and differences between literary works across different cultures and languages. Through comparative analysis, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse perspectives and themes that are present in literature from around the world. In this essay, I will discuss how the study of comparative literature can impact our understanding of world literature and contribute to the development of cross-cultural communication. 

To begin, comparative literature offers us the opportunity to explore the ways in which different cultures approach similar themes or ideas. By analyzing how different cultures have represented similar topics in their literature, we can gain insight into the shared human experiences that transcend cultural boundaries. For example, comparing the representation of love and relationships in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" and Naguib Mahfouz's "Midaq Alley" can reveal how different cultures have approached the theme of romantic love and highlight the nuances and differences in cultural attitudes toward relationships.

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A critical note on Dalit Literature

                                                                                         

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

7. Write a critical note on Dalit Literature.

Dalit literature refers to literature written by people from Dalit communities in India, who have traditionally been marginalized and oppressed due to their caste status. Dalit literature emerged as a response to the systemic discrimination faced by Dalits, and it seeks to challenge dominant narratives and give voice to the experiences of Dalit communities. In this essay, we will discuss some of the key themes and motifs found in Dalit literature, as well as the ways in which it has transformed Indian literary culture. 

One of the key themes in Dalit literature is the experience of caste-based discrimination and oppression. Dalit writers often write about the ways in which they have been excluded from mainstream society, and they use their writing to...

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A critical note on contemporary Indian poetry from the Northeast.

                                                                                        

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

6. Write a critical note on contemporary Indian poetry from the Northeast with special reference to the poems prescribed.

Contemporary Indian poetry from the Northeast is a rich and diverse genre that reflects the unique cultural and linguistic diversity of the region. With its rich oral tradition and deep connections to nature, the poetry of the Northeast has been gaining increasing attention in recent years. In this essay, we will discuss some of the key themes and motifs found in contemporary Indian poetry from the Northeast, with special reference to the poems prescribed. 

One of the key themes that runs through much of the contemporary poetry from the Northeast is a deep connection to the natural world. This is reflected in many of the poems prescribed, such as “A Stone’s Throw” by Robin S Ngangom, which uses the image of a river to explore the themes of life, death, and impermanence. The poem is filled with vivid images of the natural world, and the river serves as a powerful metaphor for the cycle of life and the impermanence of all things.

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Various symbols and motifs used in the play ‘Tughlaq’

                                                                                       

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

5. Discuss the various symbols and motifs used in the play ‘Tughlaq’.

‘Tughlaq’ is a play written by Girish Karnad, which depicts the reign of the 14th century Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq. The play uses various symbols and motifs to explore the themes of power, politics, and corruption. In this essay, we will discuss some of the symbols and motifs used in the play ‘Tughlaq’. 

One of the primary symbols used in the play is the character of Muhammad bin Tughlaq himself. Tughlaq is portrayed as a complex and flawed character who is torn between his desire to be a just ruler and his thirst for power. The symbol of Tughlaq's character represents the theme of power and corruption in the play.

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The theme of communalism and its treatment in the novel ‘Tamas’

                                                                                      

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

4. Discuss the theme of communalism and its treatment in the novel ‘Tamas’.

Communalism, which refers to the division of society along religious or communal lines, is a significant theme in the novel ‘Tamas’ by Bhisham Sahni. The book is set in the year 1947, during the partition of India, when communal tensions between Hindus and Muslims were at their peak. Sahni explores the causes and consequences of communalism through the lens of different characters from different religious backgrounds. 

The book depicts how communalism can lead to violence, hatred, and ultimately, the destruction of humanity. The novel ‘Tamas’ portrays the religious divide between Hindus and Muslims as the root cause of communalism. The Hindus are shown as a dominant group,

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The thematic preoccupations of the writer in Samskara

                                                                                     

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

3. What are the thematic preoccupations of the writer in Samskara? Discuss.

Samskara is a novel written by the acclaimed Kannada writer U.R. Ananthamurthy. The novel explores the themes of tradition, modernity, caste, religion, and individual freedom. It is a powerful critique of the rigid caste system in Indian society and the stifling influence of tradition on individuals. In this essay, we will discuss the thematic preoccupations of the writer in Samskara. One of the most significant themes of the novel is the tension between tradition and modernity. Ananthamurthy explores this theme through the character of Naranappa, a non-conformist who defies traditional norms and conventions. 

Naranappa's actions challenge the traditional values of the Brahmin community in which he lives, leading to conflicts and debates among the characters. The novel highlights how the conservative forces in society resist change, and the consequences of such resistance for the individuals who dare to challenge the status quo.

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Account for the rich scope of comparative studies in studying Indian Literature

                                                                                    

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-14)

Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-14 

2. Account for the rich scope of comparative studies in studying Indian Literature.

Comparative studies in Indian literature are essential as they allow us to understand the complexities of Indian literature, which is rich in its diversity, cultural context, and multiple languages. With over 22 officially recognized languages in India, the study of literature from a comparative perspective allows scholars to explore the similarities and differences between works written in different languages, regions, and time periods. 

One of the major reasons why comparative studies are crucial is the vastness of Indian literature. With such a diverse range of languages, each with its unique literary traditions, it is challenging to analyze Indian literature as a single entity. Comparative studies, however, allow us to bring together literary works from various languages and cultural contexts to examine the broader themes, motifs, and structures that exist across different traditions. This approach also helps to shed light on how literature in one language may influence or borrow from literature in another language, thus enriching our understanding of literary history and evolution.

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Discuss the novel Changia Rukh: Against the Night as a Bildungsroman

                                                                                   

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-13)

WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-13 

5. Discuss the novel Changia Rukh: Against the Night as a Bildungsroman.

"Changia Rukh: Against the Night" is a novel written by the Indian author Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. The novel is considered a Bildungsroman, a genre of literature that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist. In "Changia Rukh," the protagonist, Chandranath, undergoes a transformative journey from a naive and idealistic young man to a mature and practical individual. 

The novel is structured around Chandranath's coming-of-age story, and the events of the novel are designed to test his beliefs and ideals. The novel begins with Chandranath's arrival in the town of Changia Rukh, where he starts working as a schoolteacher. Chandranath is an idealistic young man who believes in the power of education and wants to make a positive difference in the world.

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Critically analyse the poem ‘Naked Truths

                                                                                  

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-13)

WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-13 

4. Critically analyse the poem ‘Naked Truths.’

"Naked Truths" is a poem by Gieve Patel that explores the theme of identity and self-discovery. The poem presents the idea that the truth of one's identity is often hidden behind a mask, and it is only when we strip away the layers that we can truly understand who we are. 

The poem is structured in four stanzas, each exploring a different aspect of the theme. In the first stanza, the speaker introduces the idea that people often wear masks to hide their true identity. The speaker suggests that we all have our secrets, and we wear masks to hide them from the world.

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Discuss some of the important issues taken up in the novel Mother Forest: The Unfinished Story of C. K. Janu

                                                                                 

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-13)

WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-13 

3. Discuss some of the important issues taken up in the novel Mother Forest: The Unfinished Story of C. K. Janu.

"Mother Forest: The Unfinished Story of C.K. Janu" is a non-fictional account of the life of C.K. Janu, a tribal leader, and activist from Kerala. The book covers several important issues, including land rights, indigenous rights, and the impact of development projects on marginalized communities. 

One of the significant issues taken up in the book is the struggle of indigenous communities to protect their land and livelihoods. The book describes how Janu and her community fought against the government's decision to build a dam on the Kabani river. The construction of the dam would have resulted in the displacement of many tribal communities who depend on the river for their survival. Janu's protest brought the issue to national attention and eventually led to the project being abandoned.

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Analyse the plot of the play Budhan

                                                                                

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-13)

WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-13 

2. Analyse the plot of the play Budhan.

"Budhan" is a play written by Mohit Chattopadhyay, which revolves around the life of a lower-caste village boy, Budhan. The play is set in rural Bengal, where caste-based discrimination is deeply ingrained in society. The story follows the journey of Budhan, who fights against the system to overcome the barriers of caste and achieve his dreams.

The play begins with the introduction of Budhan, a young boy from a lower caste family, who dreams of going to school and getting an education. However, his dreams are shattered when he is denied admission to the local school because of his caste. Budhan's father, a laborer, is resigned to his son's fate, but Budhan's mother is determined to help her son achieve his dreams.

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Dalit Autobiography - WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS- IGNOU 13

                                                                               

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-13)

WRITINGS FROM THE MARGINS

ASSIGNMENT 

(Based on Blocks (1-8)

Course Code: MEG-13 

1. Write short notes on:

b) Dalit Autobiography

Dalit Autobiography is a literary genre that emerged in India in the mid-20th century, in which Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables") narrate their life stories and experiences of caste-based discrimination and oppression. These autobiographies have become an important tool for social and political activism, as well as for reclaiming the Dalit identity and challenging the dominant caste-based narrative in Indian society. 

In Dalit Autobiography, writers often describe their experiences of poverty, discrimination, and violence, as well as their struggles for education, employment, and social equality. These narratives provide a firsthand account of the lived experiences of Dalits, and offer a counter-narrative to the mainstream Hindu caste system, which has historically marginalized and oppressed them.

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