From Submission to Affirmation A Study of Women Characters in the Novels of Bapsi Sidhwa

Abstract

The position and status of women in modern era is a much debated subject and gender discrimination is regarded as a defining feature of all conservative societies. Denied a treatment at par with men in all spheres of human activity it is imperative for women to determine their new roles and to redefine their parameters. The portrayal of women in literature on these lines has helped women writers to contest stereotypes and draw role models. In her writings, Bapsi Sidhwa has analysed social cultural modes and values that have given women of South Asia their image and role towards themselves and the society. The chief contribution of Sidhwa s work consists of her exploration of moral and psychic dilemmas and repercussions of her women characters along with their efforts to cope with challenges and to achieve new harmony of relationships with themselves and their surroundings. newlineHer women characters are constructed from different positional perspectives. They present multiple and contradictory subject positions that are ever changing within their specific situation. If at one point they adhere to the patriarchal norms of their traditional society in certain respects, in others they oppose the very same norms and customs. Through her extremely absorbing and interesting work, Sidhwa seeks to contribute to the process of change that demands a reconsideration of women s status and restructuring of social thought. newlinePositioning historical and biographical environs collectively, Sidhwa s novels reveals that women move from the state of being absolutely acquiescent to a position where they assert their identity. In between they pass through a transient phase when they recognise their self and act against the repressive social structures. At the outset, they are thoroughly controlled and trained in domestic duties, and they do not progress beyond getting married and producing children. They are undoubtedly reigned in and educated to become nothing else but a good wife, a good mother. They devote all their time in conforming to