Negotiating Gender, Agency, and Feminist Consciousness: A Comparative Study of Classical and Indian Modern Literature

Abstract

Ple This study embarks an engaging exploration of the female narratives in Bhasa's works, particularly “Svapnavasavadatta” and “Urubhangam,” where insightful connections are woven with Kamala Markandaya's “Nectar in a Sieve” and “A Silence of Desire,” Anita Desai's “Cry The Peacock” and “Where Shall We Go This Summer?,” and Shashi Deshpande's “That Long Silence and The Binding VineAnchored in modern feminist theory, the research uncovers how these authors craft narratives that transcend time, resonating profoundly with contemporary literary discourse. The study is rooted in contemporary feminist theory and how these authors develop fiction that is time- transcendent and incredibly relevant to present literary circles. Posing classical portrayals by Bhasa against modern-day feminist interpretations, the study brings out a remarkable continuity in the depictions of resilience and agency in women's lives and how these are highly universalised. Employing feminist literary criticism, it examines character arcs, thematic parallels, and societal reflections, unravelling layers of complexity and strength in these narratives.            

The findings show the timeless relevance of Bhasa’s themes, bridging classical and modern literature to enrich the evolving dialogue on gender and identity. This study amplifies the enduring power of women’s voices in Indian literature. It fosters a deeper appreciation of their transformative role in shaping cultural and literary paradigms, underscoring the harmonies between past and present in the ongoing quest for equality and selfhood.