A Comparative Study of the Portrayal of Women and Family in the Novels of Anita Desai

Abstract

This research paper presents a comparative analysis of the portrayal of women and family dynamics in the novels of Anita Desai, a distinguished Indian author known for her insightful exploration of human relationships and cultural conflicts. Desai’s works, deeply rooted in the Indian context, offer a nuanced understanding of the evolving identities of women against a backdrop of traditional and contemporary societal values. This study delves into the intricate interplay between gender roles, familial expectations, and societal attitudes towards these constructs within the Indian cultural milieu, highlighting the persistent coexistence of traditional patriarchal values alongside emerging egalitarian views.

Anita Desai’s literature serves as a reflective mirror to the socio-cultural landscape, particularly emphasizing the psychological and emotional realms of her female characters. Through a meticulous examination of novels such as "Cry, The Peacock," "Clear Light of Day," and "Fasting, Feasting," this paper explores Desai’s portrayal of women’s struggles within familial frameworks, their quest for identity, and the emotional void in marital relationships. Desai’s protagonists, often trapped in unfulfilling marriages and constrained by societal expectations, illuminate the complex dynamics of family life and the pursuit of personal autonomy and emotional fulfillment.