DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

UNIVERSITY OF DELHI

INTERNAL ASSESSMENT ASSIGNMENT

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SEMESTER- II

NAME OF THE STUDENT : GITANJALI

SEMESTER : 2nd SECTION : II

CLASS ROLL NO. : ENGMA-23/134 EXAM ROLL NO. : 23203708064

COURSE : Department of English, University of Delhi

PAPER CODE : 120351204

PAPER NAME : DISABILITY STUDIES AND LITERARY

REPRESENTATIONS

TITLE OF THE PAPER : The socio- cultural model of disability and it’s
implication in Tagore’s ‘Subha.’
DATE OF SUBMISSION : April 20th, 2024

DECLARATION : I certify that this is my own unaided work, and does not contain
unreferenced material copied from other sources. I understand that plagiarism is a serious
offence and may result in a drastic reduction of marks awarded for the term paper. This
assignment has not been submitted, or any part of it, in connection with any other assessment.

FULL NAME : GITANJALI

SIGNATURE :
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Gitanjali

ENG: Disability Studies and Literary Representations

ENGMA- 134

April 20th, 2024

The socio- cultural model of disability and it’s implication in Tagore’s ‘Subha.’

Rabindranath Tagore's short story "Subha" intricately explores the intricate dynamics of

societal attitudes towards disability, and the profound struggle individuals with disabilities face

in seeking acceptance and inclusion within their communities.

Within the socio-cultural model, disability is perceived not merely as an individual medical

condition but as a multifaceted product of societal structures, attitudes, and perceptions. This

framework contends that it is the societal barriers and prejudices, rather than inherent

deficiencies within the individual, that predominantly shape the experiences of people with

disabilities.1

The socio-cultural model of disability provides a paradigm shift from the traditional medical

model by emphasizing the significance of societal factors in shaping the experiences of

individuals with disabilities. In contrast to the medical model, which primarily focuses on the

individual’s impairments and seeks to cure or manage them medically, the socio-cultural model

broadens the understanding of disability by acknowledging the impact of social attitudes,

structures, and policies on the lives of people with disabilities2.

1
Shakespeare, T. Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited. Routledge, 2013.
2
Shakespeare, T. Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited. Routledge, 2013.
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Prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions about disability often lead to social exclusion,

marginalization, and the internalization of negative self-perceptions by individuals with

disabilities. Consequently, people with disabilities may face barriers not only in accessing

physical spaces and services but also in experiencing full social inclusion and participation in

community life.

By highlighting the role of social structures and cultural beliefs, the socio-cultural model calls

for a broader understanding of disability that extends beyond individual impairments to

encompass the social, economic, and political contexts in which people live. It emphasizes the

importance of addressing systemic inequalities, advocating for policy changes, and promoting

social attitudes that foster inclusivity, respect, and dignity for individuals with disabilities.

In Rabindranath Tagore’s “Subha,” the character of Subha embodies the struggles of

individuals with disabilities in the face of societal prejudice and discrimination. Subha, a young

woman with a physical disability, becomes a poignant representation of the socio-cultural

model’s emphasis on social barriers to inclusion and acceptance. Tagore vividly portrays

Subha’s experiences, highlighting the pervasive societal attitudes that contribute to her

marginalization and exclusion.

Throughout the narrative, Subha is depicted as facing various forms of discrimination and

ostracization due to her disability. Tagore writes, “Her life is crushed like a creeper beneath the

stone. She is shunned as if she were a leper”3. This excerpt vividly captures the harsh reality of

Subha’s existence, illustrating the deep-rooted stigma and social isolation she endures.

Additionally, Subha’s interactions with other characters further underscore the societal

prejudices she encounters, as she is treated with pity, condescension, and contempt. The use of

the metaphor “crushed like a creeper beneath the stone” suggests the weight of societal

3
Tagore Rabindranath. “Subha”. In Collected Works of Rabindranath Tagore, edited by Sukanta Chaudhuri,
Oxford University Press, 2007.
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expectations and norms that limit the participation and opportunities of individuals with

disabilities. The comparison of Subha to a leper highlights the marginalization and exclusion

faced by individuals with disabilities, who are often perceived as “other” and undesirable.

Subha’s experiences aligns closely with the socio-cultural model’s perspective on disability.

By emphasizing the role of societal attitudes, structures, and policies in shaping the lives of

individuals with disabilities, the socio-cultural model highlights how Subha’s exclusion is not

merely a consequence of her impairment but is largely influenced by prevailing societal norms

and prejudices.

“Subha is not allowed to go to school, nor can she play with the other children in the village.

Her mother keeps her hidden away, as if she were a shameful secret”. This illustrates the way

societal attitudes and structures limit the participation and opportunities of individuals with

disabilities. By keeping Subha hidden away, her mother reinforces the societal stigma attached

to disability and perpetuates her marginalization and exclusion.

“Subha’s only friend is a stray dog, who is also shunned by the other villagers. Together, they

form a bond of mutual understanding and companionship, based on their shared experiences of

marginalization and exclusion”. This excerpt highlights the importance of social connections

and relationships in the lives of individuals with disabilities. By depicting Subha’s friendship

with the stray dog, Tagore underscores the need to recognize and value the contributions of all

individuals, regardless of their abilities.

“Despite her disability, Subha has a keen intellect and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the

world around her. She spends her days observing the natural world, developing a deep

understanding of the interconnectedness of all things”. This excerpt highlights the need to

recognize and value the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

By depicting Subha’s intellectual abilities and appreciation for the natural world, Tagore
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challenges the societal structures and attitudes that perpetuate disability stigma and

discrimination.

Rabindranath Tagore’s portrayal of Subha in “Subha” serves as a powerful catalyst for societal

change and the promotion of acceptance and equality for individuals with disabilities. Through

Subha’s narrative, Tagore vividly illustrates the harmful effects of societal attitudes towards

disability, compelling readers to confront existing norms and advocate for inclusivity and

equality.

Tagore’s depiction of Subha’s struggles highlights the pervasive nature of societal

discrimination and stigma faced by individuals with disabilities. Tagore writes, “Her life is

crushed like a creeper beneath the stone. She is shunned as if she were a leper”. This excerpt

vividly portrays Subha’s isolation and rejection, serving as a poignant reminder of the systemic

barriers to inclusion and acceptance perpetuated by societal attitudes.

By shedding light on Subha’s experiences, Tagore prompts readers to challenge existing norms

and attitudes towards disability. Through empathy and compassion for Subha’s plight, readers

are encouraged to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of individuals with disabilities,

irrespective of their physical limitations. Tagore’s narrative urges readers to advocate for

societal change, fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment where individuals with

disabilities are fully embraced and afforded equal opportunities.

“Subha” serves as a powerful exploration of the socio-cultural model of disability, shedding

light on the complex interplay between individual experiences and societal perceptions.

Tagore’s nuanced portrayal of Subha challenges readers to reconsider preconceived notions of

disability and to strive for a more inclusive and equitable society where every individual is

valued and empowered to fulfil their potential. Through Subha’s story, Tagore leaves a lasting
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imprint on our understanding of disability and its implications for social justice and human

dignity.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Tagore, Rabindranath. “Subha”. Selected Short Stories of Rabindranath Tagore.

Translated by William Radice, Penguin Books, 2005.

2. Shakespeare, T. Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited. Routledge, 2013.