Shodh Sari-An International Multidisciplinary Journal
Vol-03, Issue-03 (July-Sep 2024)
An International scholarly/ academic journal, peer-reviewed/ refereed journal, ISSN : 2959-1376
The Interplay of Magic Realism and Historical Realism: Amitav Ghosh's Novels
Deore, Manisha
Research Scholar, K.T.H.M. College (Research Centre) Nashik, Maharashtra
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59231/SARI7731
Subject: English Literature / Indian Writing in English
Page No: 238–246
Received: Oct 29, 2023
Accepted: May 26, 2024
Published: July 01, 2024
Thematic Classification: Amitav Ghosh, Magic Realism, Historical Realism, Literary Analysis, Narrative Techniques, Postcolonial Literature.
Abstract
This abstract delves into the captivating blend of magic realism and historical realism in the works of renowned Indian author Amitav Ghosh. Ghosh, celebrated for his historical and socio-political narratives, occasionally infuses elements of magic realism into his storytelling. Notable novels such as “The Shadow Lines,” “The Calcutta Chromosome,” and “Sea of Poppies” serve as examples where Ghosh adeptly blurs the boundaries between the magical and the real. This research paper emphasizes the diverse ways in which Ghosh explores the interplay between reality and fantasy, encouraging the readers to engage with his narratives on multiple levels and promoting discussions about the thin boundaries of literary genres. Magic realism, which is generally characterized by the inclusion of supernatural or magical elements within a realistic backdrop, challenges the distinction between the extraordinary and the ordinary. Though it is associated with Latin American literature, this genre has been embraced and adapted by writers from a variety of cultural backgrounds. However, the complexities of Ghosh’s narratives and the depth of his characterizations leave room for diverse interpretations, possibly aligning with the principles of magic realism. This paper aims to illuminate the dynamic relationship between representing facts and stimulating the imagination, it also highlights the multi-faceted nature of literary genres and the subjective lens through which readers perceive and interpret literary works.
Keywords: Magic Realism, Historical Narrative, Literary Genres, Interpretation, Literary Analysis
Impact Statement
The research paper delves into the captivating blend of magic realism and historical realism in the works of Amitav Ghosh, showcasing how these genres intersect to create rich and complex narratives. By exploring novels such as “The Shadow Lines,” “The Calcutta Chromosome,” and “Sea of Poppies,” the paper highlights Ghosh’s ability to blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy, inviting readers to engage with his stories on multiple levels. The dynamic relationship between representing facts and stimulating the imagination encourages discussions about the intricacies of literary genres and the subjective interpretation of literary works, emphasizing the interplay of magic realism and historical realism in Ghosh’s compelling storytelling.
About Author
Manisha Deore is a dedicated and accomplished PhD student in Humanities with a specialization in English at the research center of KTHM College, Nashik, Maharashtra. Her passion for the English language and literature is evident in her extensive academic pursuits and her role as an educator. Manisha is a recognized and awarded teacher, celebrated for her excellence in teaching and her ability to connect with and inspire her students. She serves as a master trainer, where she plays a crucial role in training and developing the skills of fellow educators and learners. Manisha consistently engages in various technical and teaching initiatives, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and the enhancement of educational practices. Known for her exceptional counseling skills, she provides valuable guidance to her students, helping them navigate their academic and personal challenges. She is passionate about trying new things and continuously seeks to learn new skills and technologies, reflecting her dynamic and forward-thinking approach to both teaching and personal development. Her profile is a testament to her dedication to education, her innovative spirit, and her unwavering commitment to her students’ success. She exemplifies the qualities of an excellent teacher and a lifelong learner, making significant contributions to the field of humanities and education.
Cite this Article
APA 7th Style: Deore, M. (2024). The interplay of magic realism and historical realism: Amitav Ghosh’s novels. Shodh Sari-An International Multidisciplinary Journal, 3(03), 238–246. https://doi.org/10.59231/SARI7731
Chicago 17th Style: Deore, Manisha. “The Interplay of Magic Realism and Historical Realism: Amitav Ghosh’s Novels.” Shodh Sari-An International Multidisciplinary Journal 3, no. 3 (2024): 238–246. https://doi.org/10.59231/SARI7731.
MLA 9th Style: Deore, Manisha. “The Interplay of Magic Realism and Historical Realism: Amitav Ghosh’s Novels.” Shodh Sari-An International Multidisciplinary Journal, vol. 3, no. 3, 2024, pp. 238-246, https://doi.org/10.59231/SARI7731.
Statements & Declarations
Review Method: This article underwent a double-blind peer-review process by experts in Post-Colonial Literature and Literary Theory to ensure the depth and originality of its comparative analysis.
Competing Interests: The author, Manisha Deore, declares no financial or personal conflicts of interest that could influence the findings or interpretations of the literary works discussed in this study.
Funding: This research was conducted at the K.T.H.M. College Research Centre, Nashik. No external grants or commercial funding were utilized for this academic inquiry.
Data Availability: The analysis is based on a primary literary critique of Amitav Ghosh’s major works, supported by existing theoretical frameworks on realism and the supernatural.
License: The Interplay of Magic Realism and Historical Realism: Amitav Ghosh’s Novels © 2024 by Manisha Deore is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Published by the International Council for Education Research and Training (ICERT).
Ethics Approval: As this is a work of literary criticism and theoretical analysis not involving human subjects or clinical trials, formal institutional ethics committee approval was not required.
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