See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/375007510

Cultural Complexity in Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things" and Salman
Rushdie's "Midnight's Children"

Article · October 2023

CITATIONS READS

0 8

1 author:

Mariyam Farzand
Forman Christian College
51 PUBLICATIONS 0 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE

All content following this page was uploaded by Mariyam Farzand on 27 October 2023.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

 Cultural Complexity in Arundhati Roy's
"The God of Small Things" and Salman
Rushdie's "Midnight's Children"
By: Mariyam Farzand

.
Introduction:

Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things" and Salman Rushdie's "Midnight's Children" are

celebrated works of postcolonial literature, offering profound insights into the multifaceted

cultural landscape of India. These novels vividly depict the intertwining of culture, history, and

identity in the post-independence era. In this article, we delve into the cultural complexities of

these literary masterpieces, examining how they illuminate the socio-political climate, personal

relationships, and the postcolonial experience.

Cultural Diversity and Hybridity:

The cultural diversity of India is a central theme in both novels, reflecting the nation's mosaic of

languages, religions, and traditions. In "The God of Small Things," Roy portrays the intricate

layers of Indian society through the lives of the unconventional twins, Estha and Rahel.

Through the novel's intricate narrative structure, she intertwines Malayalam, English, and other

languages, reflecting the linguistic diversity of India. The characters often shift between
languages, reflecting the hybridity of their identities. This linguistic play underscores the

cultural hybridity that characterizes postcolonial India, where traditional and Western influences

coexist.

Salman Rushdie's "Midnight's Children" goes further in exploring the fusion of cultures. The

protagonist, Saleem Sinai, is born at the stroke of midnight on India's independence day,

symbolizing the nation's birth. Rushdie blends elements of magical realism and historical

events, creating a tapestry of Indian culture. The novel showcases a synthesis of Hindu and

Islamic traditions, regional customs, and colonial legacies. Through characters like Shiva and

Parvati, Rushdie portrays the postcolonial struggle to reconcile diverse cultural backgrounds.

Socio-Political Climate:

Both novels provide incisive commentary on the socio-political climate of their respective time

periods. "The God of Small Things" is set against the backdrop of Kerala's communist

movement and the caste system's enduring influence. Roy highlights the complexities of India's

political landscape, particularly the oppression faced by marginalized communities. Velutha, a

Dalit character, becomes a symbol of resistance against the prevailing social order.

"Midnight's Children" explores the tumultuous period of India's independence and

post-independence politics. Rushdie blends historical events with fiction, commenting on the

nation's struggle for self-definition. The character of Indira Gandhi is intricately interwoven into

the narrative, reflecting the influence of political figures on India's cultural fabric.
Narrative Techniques and Memory:

Both novels employ unique narrative techniques that play a pivotal role in conveying cultural

complexity. "The God of Small Things" employs a non-linear narrative structure that weaves

together past and present, childhood memories, and adult reflections. This technique captures

the characters' fragmented memories, reflecting the disjointed nature of the postcolonial

experience.

"Midnight's Children" utilizes Saleem Sinai as the unreliable narrator who weaves his life story

with the history of India. His telepathic connection with other midnight's children serves as a

metaphor for the collective memory of a nation. This technique allows Rushdie to explore how

personal memories merge with the cultural and political history of India.

Personal Relationships and Cultural Constraints:

Both novels delve into the intricacies of personal relationships within the cultural constraints of

postcolonial India. In "The God of Small Things," the forbidden love between Ammu and

Velutha defies caste boundaries, illustrating the harsh consequences of transgressing cultural

norms. Roy showcases the tragic repercussions of love in a society marked by deeply ingrained

prejudices.

"Midnight's Children" explores the complexities of familial and romantic relationships within

the socio-political context. Saleem's relationships with Shiva and Parvati symbolize the broader

dynamics of communal tension in India. The personal is inextricably linked to the political in

Rushdie's narrative.
Conclusion:

Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things" and Salman Rushdie's "Midnight's Children" offer

rich explorations of cultural aspects in postcolonial India. Through intricate narrative

techniques, linguistic diversity, and profound character relationships, these novels present a

multi-layered view of India's cultural complexity. They delve into the challenges of reconciling

diverse cultural identities and navigating the socio-political landscape. As enduring works of

postcolonial literature, these novels continue to illuminate the profound interplay of culture,

history, and identity in the Indian context.

View publication stats

References

Roy, Arundhati. "The God of Small Things." HarperCollins, 1997.

Rushdie, Salman. "Midnight's Children." Vintage, 2008.