ISSN : 2663-2187

The Role of Higher Education in Shaping Feminine Identities in Manju Kapur's Difficult Daughters and A Married Woman

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Dr Sanjay Prasad Pandey, Manjit Kaur
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.Si2.2024.2086-2095

Abstract

This research paper examines the portrayal of feminine identities and the influence of higher education in Manju Kapur's novels Difficult Daughters and A Married Woman. Focusing on the experiences of female protagonists in colonial and post-colonial India, the paper investigates the transformative role of education in shaping their identities, aspirations, and relationships. Through a comparative analysis of the characters, Virmati in Difficult Daughters and Astha in A Married Woman, the paper explores the complexities of feminine identity formation within the context of societal expectations and educational opportunities. It examines how higher education serves as a catalyst for self-discovery and empowerment, enabling the protagonists to challenge patriarchal norms and assert their individuality. The paper also delves into the conflicts and dilemmas faced by the protagonists as they navigate the intersections of tradition, modernity, and personal desires. It discusses the tension between familial obligations and individual ambitions, as well as the impact of societal judgments on women who pursue education and independence. By scrutinizing the paths of Virmati and Astha, this paper elucidates the ways in which higher education shapes feminine identities and redefines gender roles in Indian society. It underscores the transformative potential of education in challenging gender stereotypes, fostering self-realization, and advocating for women's rights. Through the critical analysis of Kapur's novels, this research paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between education, femininity, and societal expectations in colonial and post-colonial India. It highlights the enduring relevance of these themes in contemporary discussions on women's empowerment and gender equality.

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