Lord of the Flies - William Golding

 Lord of the Flies - William Golding 

Inroduction :

William Golding’s Lord of the Flies is a novel that delves into the depths of human nature, exploring the thin veneer of civilization and the underlying primal instincts that can surface when societal structures break down. Published in 1954, this dystopian novel has captivated readers for decades with its haunting portrayal of innocence lost and the innate capacity for savagery within all of us.

William Golding :

William Golding, one of the most distinguished British authors of the 20th century, was born on September 19, 1911, in Newquay, Cornwall, England. Raised in a relatively intellectual family, his father, Alec Golding, was a schoolmaster, and his mother, Mildred, was an active campaigner for women's rights. Golding’s early life was marked by a deep interest in literature, which led him to start writing at a young age.

Education:

• Attended Marlborough Grammar School.
• Studied natural sciences at Brasenose College, Oxford, before switching to English literature.
• Graduated in 1935 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a diploma in education.

Early Career: Worked in various professions including acting, teaching, and writing for the stage before the war.

World War II:

• Joined the Royal Navy in 1940.
• Served on a destroyer involved in significant battles, including the sinking of the Bismarck and the D-Day invasion of Normandy.
• The war experience deeply influenced his views on human nature.

Post-War Career:

• Returned to teaching English and philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth's School in Salisbury.
• Began writing Lord of the Flies during this time.

Literary Success:

• Lord of the Flies published in 1954, initially rejected by several publishers but eventually became a bestseller and a modern classic.
• Known for exploring themes of human nature and civilization.
• Other notable works include The Inheritors (1955), The Spire (1964), and Rites of Passage (1980).

Awards:

• Won the Booker Prize in 1980 for Rites of Passage.
• Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1983.
• Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988.

Death: Passed away on June 19, 1993, in Perranarworthal, Cornwall.

Legacy: Considered one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, with his works continuing to be studied for their insights into human nature and society.

Characters :

Ralph: The story’s protagonist, Ralph is one of the oldest boys on the island and becomes the leader. He is calm, rational, and committed to justice and democracy, though he is not immune to the darker instincts that affect the others.

Piggy: An intelligent, pudgy boy with asthma, Piggy is an outsider among the boys but is valued for his ideas. He represents civilization and rationality but is eventually killed by Roger, symbolizing the triumph of savagery over order.

Jack Merridew: The leader of the choirboys, Jack is obsessed with hunting and power. He represents chaos and anarchy, ultimately leading the boys into savagery and violence.

Simon: A quiet, introspective boy who has a deep connection with nature. Simon represents the spiritual side of humanity. He discovers the "beast" is actually a dead pilot but is killed by the other boys in a frenzy, symbolizing a Christ-like martyrdom.

Sam and Eric: Twin brothers who remain loyal to Ralph and Piggy. They are often treated as a single entity and represent the loss of individual identity in the group.

Roger: Jack’s cruel henchman, Roger becomes increasingly violent as the story progresses. He is responsible for Piggy’s death and represents the darkest side of human nature.

Maurice: One of Jack’s hunters who takes part in the group’s violent rituals. He symbolizes the unthinking masses who follow the leader without question.

Percival: One of the youngest boys, Percival tries to remember his name and address as a connection to home. His loss of memory by the end symbolizes the complete breakdown of civilization among the boys.

The Beast: A dead pilot mistaken by the boys for a terrifying creature. The beast symbolizes the boys’ fears and the savagery that lurks within them.

The Lord of the Flies: A pig’s head on a stick, left as an offering to the beast. It symbolizes the evil and savagery that have taken over the boys.

Naval Officer: The officer who rescues the boys at the end. He mistakenly believes the boys were just playing games, highlighting the contrast between the boys’ brutal reality and adult perceptions of civilization.

Summary :

During an unnamed war, a plane carrying a group of British schoolboys crashes on a deserted island in the Pacific. The pilot dies, but many of the boys survive and find themselves alone without any adults to guide them. The story begins by introducing Ralph, one of the oldest boys, who is confident and good-looking, and Piggy, a chubby boy with asthma who, despite being teased, is smart and practical.

Ralph discovers a conch shell and uses it to gather the other boys on the island. Among them is Jack Merridew, a tough and aggressive boy who leads a choir group. The boys elect Ralph as their leader, and he, along with Jack and another boy named Simon, explores the island. They find that it’s truly deserted and realize they need to find food. During their exploration, they come across a pig, but Jack hesitates and doesn’t kill it.

Back at their camp, Ralph holds a meeting to establish rules for survival. Jack agrees with Ralph, as he likes the idea of punishing rule-breakers, but Piggy points out that they should focus on long-term survival needs, like building shelters. Ralph suggests building a fire on the mountain to signal any passing ships, and the boys use Piggy’s glasses to start it. However, Piggy worries about the lack of organization, noting that they haven’t even counted how many boys there are, and one boy might already be missing.

While Ralph focuses on building shelters, Jack becomes obsessed with hunting. The younger boys, called "littluns," mostly play and eat fruit, while the older boys start to lose interest in their tasks. One day, a ship passes by, but the signal fire has burned out because Jack and his hunters were too busy killing a pig. This leads to a fight between Jack and Piggy, during which Jack breaks one of Piggy’s glasses. The hunters start chanting, "Kill the pig. Cut her throat. Bash her in," celebrating their kill with a wild dance.

Ralph becomes worried about Jack and the hunters' increasingly violent behavior and calls a meeting. He stresses that the fire is their only hope for rescue and that they need to work together. However, Jack dismisses the rules and takes some of the boys on a hunt for a supposed "beast" on the island. Piggy warns Ralph that if Jack becomes the leader, they might never get rescued.

One night, during an aerial battle, a dead pilot parachutes onto the island. The boys mistake his body for the beast. Jack leads another hunt, but when Ralph tries to assert his authority, Jack challenges him, and most of the boys join Jack’s tribe. Jack’s group kills another pig and offers its head as a sacrifice to the beast. Simon, who has been meditating in a quiet spot, finds the pig’s head surrounded by flies and imagines it speaking to him, revealing that the real "beast" is the evil inside the boys themselves.

Simon later discovers the dead pilot and realizes the truth. He rushes to tell the others, but in their fear and frenzy, they mistake him for the beast and kill him. The next day, Ralph, Piggy, and the twins, Sam and Eric, try to keep the signal fire going, but Jack’s hunters attack them, stealing Piggy’s glasses to start their own fire.

Ralph and Piggy decide to confront Jack and his tribe. They go to Jack's camp and try to reason with him, but Jack refuses to listen. Roger, one of Jack's followers, pushes a large rock off a cliff, killing Piggy and shattering the conch shell, which symbolized order. Jack declares himself the new leader and hunts Ralph, who barely escapes.

In the end, as the boys set the forest on fire to smoke Ralph out, he collapses on the beach, exhausted and terrified. A naval officer arrives, having seen the smoke from the fire, and rescues the boys. The officer, thinking the boys were just playing games, scolds them for their behavior. As they prepare to leave the island, Ralph weeps for the loss of his friend Piggy and the end of their innocence.

Themes :

1. Civilization vs. Savagery: At its core, Lord of the Flies is a commentary on the fragile nature of civilization. The boys’ gradual descent into savagery illustrates how easily the rules and norms of society can break down when there is no one to enforce them.
2. Innate Human Evil: Golding suggests that evil is an inherent part of human nature. The boys’ actions, from the killing of Simon to the hunting of Ralph, reveal the darkness that lies within everyone when stripped of societal constraints.
3. Loss of Innocence: The boys start as innocent children, but the island's harsh conditions and their own primal instincts quickly erode this innocence. The novel highlights the loss of childhood purity as they become increasingly violent and ruthless.
4. The Power Struggle: The struggle between Ralph and Jack represents the conflict between order and chaos, rationality and impulsivity, civilization and barbarism. This power struggle is a microcosm of the broader conflicts that have plagued humanity throughout history.

The Human Condition

Golding's portrayal of the boys' descent into savagery is a stark reminder of the potential for evil within all of us. The novel challenges readers to reflect on the thin line that separates civilization from chaos, order from anarchy, and morality from immorality. It forces us to consider the consequences when the structures that maintain societal order are stripped away.

Lord of the Flies is more than just a story about boys on an island; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. Golding’s pessimistic view of humanity is unsettling, yet it compels us to confront the darker aspects of our nature. The novel remains relevant today, as it speaks to the ongoing struggles within society—whether in the form of political conflicts, social unrest, or the constant battle between good and evil within ourselves.

Conclusion

William Golding’s Lord of the Flies is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers because of its powerful exploration of human nature. It is a sobering reminder of how quickly civilization can crumble and how easily the darkness within us can emerge. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, Golding’s novel serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of order and the ever-present potential for chaos.

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Animal Farm -George Orwell

 Animal Farm - George Orwell

Introduction :

George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a timeless allegorical novella that delves into the complexities of power, corruption, and the often devastating consequences of revolution. Published in 1945, the story is set on a fictional farm where the oppressed animals overthrow their human owner, only to find themselves under the tyrannical rule of their fellow animals. The novella serves as a sharp critique of totalitarianism, particularly reflecting the events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent rise of Stalinism in the Soviet Union.

George Orwell :-

George Orwell was the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, an English novelist, essayist, journalist, and critic. He is best known for his novels 1984 and Animal Farm, both of which reflect his deep-seated opposition to totalitarianism and his support for democratic socialism. Here are some key details about him:

 Early Life

- Birth: June 25, 1903, in Motihari, Bengal Presidency (now in Bihar, India).

- Family: His father, Richard Walmesley Blair, worked in the Opium Department of the Indian Civil Service; his mother, Ida Mabel Blair, was of French descent.

- Education: Attended St Cyprian's School, then Eton College. He did not go to university but joined the Indian Imperial Police in Burma (now Myanmar) in 1922.

Career

- Early Work: Left the police in 1927 and lived in poverty in Paris and London, experiences that informed his first book, Down and Out in Paris and London(1933).

- Major Works:

  - Animal Farm(1945): A satirical allegory of Soviet totalitarianism.

  - 1984 (1949): A dystopian novel set in a future where a totalitarian regime suppresses all dissent.

- Other Works: Burmese Days, A Clergyman's Daughter, Keep the Aspidistra Flying, The Road to Wigan Pier, Homage to Catalonia.

Themes and Style

- Political Critique: Orwell's works often critique oppressive political regimes and explore themes of truth, freedom, and individual autonomy.

- Writing Style: Known for his clear prose, Orwell believed in writing that was straightforward and free of unnecessary embellishment.

Personal Life

- Marriage: Married Eileen O'Shaughnessy in 1936. She died in 1945. He later married Sonia Brownell in 1949.

- Health: Orwell suffered from chronic health problems, including tuberculosis, which eventually led to his death.

Death :

- Date: January 21, 1950, in London, England.

- Legacy: Orwell's work has had a lasting impact on political thought and literature. Terms like "Orwellian" and concepts like "Big Brother" have entered common parlance.

Orwell's exploration of social injustice, opposition to totalitarianism, and advocacy for democratic socialism remain influential. His works continue to be studied for their literary merit and political insight.

Characters :

- Old Major, a highly respected boar who represents the historical figure, communist leader Karl Marx.

- Snowball is a boar and one of the leaders among the pigs who is young, but intelligent, and represents an abstract idea of evil.

- Napoleon is a stubborn boar who represents a communist tyrant.

- Squealer is a porker pig who is talented in the art of argument and deception. He represents the propaganda machine of a totalitarian government.

- Mr. Jones is a man who owns the land that is taken over by his animals. He represents a corrupt government.

- Pilkington is a man and the owner of another farm that is large and unkempt. He prefers pursuing his hobbies to maintaining his land and represents the Allied countries.

- Frederick is a cruel man and the owner of a small adjacent farm. He represents Adolf Hitler.

- Boxer is a large male horse who is respected for his steadiness of character and work ethic. He represents the uneducated and exploited working class, who take propaganda to heart and believe in the government’s cause without question.

- Whymper is a man and lawyer who acts as Animal Farm’s intermediary to the human world, while ignoring the atrocities committed there. He represents nations that profit from conducting business with brutal dictators.

- The sheep are naïve and loyal to the tenets of Animal Farm and represent ignorant masses who blindly follow their government.

Summary :

Animal Farm is a satirical story written by George Orwell, set on Manor Farm, a typical farm in England. The story is narrated by a third-person narrator who tells the events from the perspective of the animals on the farm, without adding personal opinions.

The story begins with an old pig named Old Major gathering all the animals in the big barn. He tells them that he believes he will die soon and shares his thoughts about life. Old Major believes that humans are the reason why animals live in misery and slavery. He encourages the animals to take control of their lives by overthrowing the humans in a rebellion. After sharing his dream of this rebellion, Old Major passes away.

Following Old Major's death, the other animals, led by the pigs Snowball, Napoleon, and Squealer, start preparing for the rebellion. One night, when the farm's owner, Mr. Jones, gets drunk and neglects the animals, they take the opportunity to rebel. The hungry animals break into the storage shed, and when Mr. Jones tries to stop them with a whip, they chase him and his men off the farm. After their victory, the animals destroy all symbols of their old life under human rule, but they decide to keep the farmhouse as a museum. Snowball renames the farm "Animal Farm" and creates Seven Commandments, which are the core principles of Animalism:

1. Whatever walks on two legs is an enemy.
2. Whatever walks on four legs or has wings is a friend.
3. No animal shall wear clothes.
4. No animal shall sleep in a bed.
5. No animal shall drink alcohol.
6. No animal shall kill another animal.
7. All animals are equal.

The pigs take charge and organize the work on the farm, with each animal working according to their ability. They have a successful harvest, and the animals are happy and well-fed. However, the pigs begin to take advantage of their intelligence, making decisions for the other animals and giving themselves special privileges. They even secretly drink the milk that the cows produced.

Snowball and Napoleon, the two leading pigs, often disagree, especially on big decisions like building a windmill to provide electricity. Snowball wants to build it, but Napoleon opposes the idea. Eventually, Napoleon uses trained dogs (the puppies he secretly raised) to chase Snowball off the farm and takes full control, ending the Sunday meetings where all animals used to discuss issues. Napoleon now makes all the decisions, and the other animals are expected to obey without question. The hardworking horse Boxer adopts the mottoes, “I will work harder” and “Napoleon is always right.”

Napoleon soon claims that the windmill was his idea and orders its construction, forcing the animals to work even harder. Food shortages begin, and Napoleon starts trading with humans, despite earlier promises not to. The pigs move into the farmhouse, and Squealer, the pig who spreads Napoleon’s propaganda, convinces the animals that the original commandments were never meant to forbid these actions. Over time, the commandments are subtly changed to suit the pigs' needs, like “No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets.”

As the farm faces more challenges, including a harsh winter and attacks from humans, the pigs continue to lie to the other animals, claiming that everything is going well. They even force some animals to confess to crimes they didn’t commit and have them executed by the dogs.

The pigs gradually become more like the humans they replaced, walking on two legs, wearing clothes, and enjoying luxuries while the other animals continue to work hard with little reward. The original commandments are eventually replaced with a single one: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

In the end, the pigs invite the neighboring human farmers to a banquet. The other animals, watching from outside, realize that they can no longer tell the difference between the pigs and the humans. The pigs have completely betrayed the ideals of the rebellion, and the farm’s name is changed back to “Manor Farm,” as it was under Mr. Jones. The story ends with the animals looking in through the windows and seeing that the pigs have become just as oppressive as the humans they once overthrew.

Themes :

1. Satire of Stalinism: Orwell's "Animal Farm" is a critique of totalitarian regimes, specifically Stalin's Soviet Union. The characters and events in the novel symbolize key figures and incidents from Soviet history. For instance, Napoleon represents Stalin, Snowball symbolizes Trotsky, and the conflict between them mirrors the power struggle between Stalin and Trotsky. Events like the Battle of the Windmill allude to World War II, while the changing of the Seven Commandments reflects the manipulation of truth under Stalin's rule.
2. Inevitability of Totalitarianism: Orwell believed that totalitarianism was a likely outcome in any society, including the West. This belief is reflected in the cyclical structure of the novel, where the pigs, who start as leaders of a rebellion for equality, eventually become indistinguishable from the oppressive humans they replaced. This cycle suggests that any new leadership might eventually mirror the old, corrupt system.
3. Intelligence and Education as Tools of Oppression: The pigs use their superior intelligence to control and manipulate the other animals. They learn to read and write, but prevent the other animals from gaining the same knowledge, ensuring their dominance. Over time, they revise the farm's commandments to suit their needs, using their education to maintain power and exploit the less educated animals.
4. Propaganda and Duplicity: The novel shows how propaganda is used to control the masses. Squealer, representing the propaganda machine, manipulates language and spreads lies to keep the other animals submissive. Through propaganda, the pigs are able to maintain control, even convincing the animals that the clearly unequal society is fair.
5. Violence and Terror as Means of Control: Orwell highlights how dictators use violence and fear to suppress dissent. The public executions on the farm symbolize Stalin's purges, where people were coerced into confessing to crimes they didn't commit. These acts of violence serve to terrorize the population into submission.
6. Exploitation and Human Rights: The novel illustrates how those in power exploit others. The pigs exploit the labor and ignorance of the other animals, while the dogs are used as instruments of terror. The story emphasizes the importance of human rights and the dangers of their absence, as the animals' initial rebellion for freedom only leads to a new form of exploitation.
7. Apathy and Acceptance: Over time, the animals become increasingly apathetic, accepting their grim reality. Boxer, who represents loyalty and hard work, is ultimately betrayed by the pigs, showing how blind faith in leadership can be exploited. The other animals' growing apathy reflects a defense mechanism against the harshness of their lives, mirroring Orwell's own pessimism.

Relevance Today

Despite being set in a specific historical context, Animal Farm remains relevant today as a cautionary tale about the nature of power and the ease with which idealism can be corrupted. The novella serves as a reminder that vigilance and critical thinking are necessary to safeguard against tyranny, no matter the political ideology.

Orwell’s critique is not just aimed at a particular political system but at the broader human tendency toward corruption when power is concentrated in the hands of a few. Animal Farm encourages readers to reflect on the dynamics of power and control in their own societies and to question the integrity of their leaders.

Conclusion

Animal Farm stands as a powerful literary work that continues to provoke thought and discussion about governance, power, and the perils of revolution. Orwell’s sharp, concise prose and his ability to weave complex political commentary into a simple story make Animal Farm a must-read for anyone interested in the mechanics of power and the lessons of history. In a world where the struggle for freedom and equality persists, Orwell’s novella remains as pertinent and compelling as ever.

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Final Solutions by Mahesh Dattani

Final Solutions by Mahesh Dattani

Hello Everyone,  This blog based on The Department of English at MKBU Organized a 'Drama Workshop' from July 15 to 22, conducted by Alpa Ponda, a research scholar currently pursuing her PhD on 'Drama Pedagogy' in the literature classroom. Throughout the workshop, we explored various aspects of drama and its performance. Students also the chance to stage the play 'Final Solutions,' which is part of our syllabus. 

-Assigened by Prakruti Ma'am.

About Mahesh Dattani :

Mahesh Dattani (born 7 August 1958) is an Indian director, actor, playwright and writer. He wrote such plays as Final Solutions, Dance Like a Man, Bravely Fought the Queen, On a Muggy Night in Mumbai, Tara, Thirty Days in September 2007 and The Big Fat City.

He is the first playwright in English to be awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award. His plays have been directed by eminent directors like Arvind Gaur, Alyque Padamsee and Lillete Dubey.

Dattani makes a bold move when he choses to address the issues concerning gender discrimination. His writings then become important when you wish to explore how deeply certain stereotypes are rooted in society. 

Questions -Answers :-

• Reflect on your journey through Final Solutions as a student of theatre. How did the process of studying, rehearsing, and performing this play shape your understanding and appreciation of theatre?

The Department of English organized a drama workshop from July 15 to 22, 2024. This was my first time participating in such a workshop, and while I had heard about it before, being a part of it was a completely new experience.In the first three days, we focused on tone and intonation in speech. On the second day, we prepared a small solo performance and received feedback from our instructor, which helped us improve. We learned to use our bodies as props and explored body movement, stage presence, and stagecraft, including the importance of wings and staging in drama.

We also practiced expressing the nine emotions (bhavas) from Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra. Abhinaya, or expression through body, face, and gestures, was a key element. On the following day,I am not present this day but listen my classmets said that  we participated  group performance based on themes assigned by our instructor. A fun part of the workshop was a theatrical game that helped us open up as actors and express our emotions better.

We learned basic information of drama then moved on to Vachikam, which involved reading the play aloud, a process quite different from reading a novel. Ma'am gave us a demo, and in groups, we read the entire play. This exercise improved our speaking skills and deepened our understanding of the characters and the play's environment.Vachikam also helped us understand the characters' maturity and how they speak, influenced by factors like age, dress, and atmosphere.

In this workshop days We had the opportunity to meet Kamal Joshi, a renowned drama artist, who shared valuable insights about the play. Additionally, we learned various theatrical techniques, framing, and how to incorporate music into the performance.

In this Play performanced my role  in drama back stage I helped Chirag bhai in music and also performed in the end few minitues backstage dance.

• How does Mahesh Dattani manipulate time and space within the dramatic framework of Final Solutions to create meaning? Explore the interplay of these elements with specific reference to the stagecraft techniques employed by the playwright.

Mahesh Dattani carefully crafted the stage setup from the beginning, indicating how the characters should sit and stand, and even suggested a ramp for the chorus to stand on, representing the outside world. The chorus symbolizes the masses, shifting between Hindu and Muslim identities.

The central character, Hardika, uses her diary to revisit the past, and Dattani cleverly manipulates time through this. Daksha, who had a bitter experience with Zarin and her family in the past, connects this with the arrival of two Muslim boys in the present. Her loss of her father is constantly tied to these memories, and whenever something reminds her of the past, she mentally returns to that time. The boys' presence brings back painful memories of Zarin's family.

As these memories resurface, Hardika asks the boys to leave her house, and her deep-seated hatred emerges, fueled by the domestic violence she suffered from her in-laws. Dattani captures this shift in time by placing Daksha in the background and Hardika in the foreground. Noor Jahan's songs link Daksha and Hardika, while Ramnik uses papers to connect with the past. Dattani uses the ramp to symbolize the outside world, and the house as a microcosm of society, where open-minded individuals like Smita, Ramnik, and Bobby clash with biased ones like Javed, Hardika, and Aruna.

• Examine the complexity of guilt experienced by the characters in the play. How does this emotion shape their actions and relationships?

The play "Final Solutions" shifts between past and present to reveal Hardika's inner conflict. She struggles to let go of her past. Through her diary, she revisits her memories, trying to justify her current behavior towards the two boys. She believes that these boys, along with the entire Muslim community, are to blame for what happened to her father in the past. In one of her dialogues, she even mentions that both Javed's sister and Zarin deserve to be punished.

Hardika also reflects on her early days as Daksha, recalling how poorly she was treated by her husband, Hari, and her mother-in-law. When it comes to portraying these elements on stage, it can be challenging. We addressed this during our performance by using lighting techniques, stage positioning, and costumes to convey the shifts in time and emotion.

Group Photo :

Here Whole Drama video :-

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Postcolonial Studies: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Hello Everyone, This blog is part of a Sunday reading task with ideas from the videos of Chimamanda Adichie.

- Assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad Sir

More reading visit Dilip sir blog :Click Here

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie born on 15 September 1977) is a Nigerian novelist, writer of short stories, and nonfiction. Her novels, short stories, and nonfiction explore the intersections of identity.

Works :

Purple Hibiscus (2003)

Half of a Yellow Sun (2006)

Americanah (2013)

The Thing Around Your Neck (2009)

We Should All Be Feminists (2014).

In 2008, Adichie was awarded a MacArthur Genius Grant. She was described in The Times Literary Supplement as "the most prominent" of a "procession of critically acclaimed young anglophone authors [who] is succeeding in attracting a new generation of readers to African literature". Her most recent book, Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions, was published in March 2017. 

Video 1 :- Talk on importance of story/literature

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s talk on “The Danger of a Single Story” highlights how limiting ourselves to just one perspective about people or places can create harmful stereotypes. Adichie explains that when we only hear one story about a group, we risk reducing them to incomplete and misleading stereotypes.

She shares how her own view of literature changed when she discovered African writers like Chinua Achebe and Camara Laye. She realized that characters in books could be as real and relatable as her own experiences, and stories could reflect real-life events. This helped her understand that literature isn’t confined to just one narrative.

Adichie also discusses her experiences with the single story, such as how her American roommate had misconceptions about her because of stereotypes about Africans. She also mentions how her own stereotypes about Mexicans were shaped by negative media portrayals.

In her talk, Adichie emphasizes the risks of reducing complex human experiences to a single narrative. In our globalized world, where we are constantly exposed to various stories through media and literature, her message is especially relevant. She highlights the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and argues for embracing diverse narratives to foster understanding and empathy.

Video 2 :- We Should All be Feminists 

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shares her personal journey from being non-feminist to feminist. Initially, she didn't like being called a feminist by her friend Okuloma. She explains that in African and Nigerian societies, feminism is often seen as "un-African" and tied to negative stereotypes, like being unhappy or unable to find a husband. Despite this, she embraces the term and calls herself a "happy African feminist."

Adichie provides examples of gender inequality, such as not being chosen to monitor her class in school despite having the highest test score, just because she was a girl. She also notes how men are often seen as more important, like when a man received praise for money she had given.

Her talk criticizes how gender norms are established and maintained, especially in Nigeria and Africa. She argues for a fairer society where gender does not limit opportunities and challenges traditional beliefs. Adichie calls for changing how we raise boys and girls, aiming for a world where everyone can be themselves without being restricted by gender norms. She believes feminism is about creating equality for everyone, not just about women’s rights.

Video 3 :- Talk on importance of Truth in Post-Truth Era

In her speech, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie emphasizes the importance of truth. She explains that while honesty might not always lead to success, it provides personal comfort and dignity.

Adichie highlights the value of being self-aware and learning from one's mistakes. She shares how recognizing the flaws in her early work helped her improve and succeed. She encourages graduates to be leaders who value integrity and truth.

She also discusses how literature can help us understand others and make better decisions. Adichie advises the graduates to be courageous in speaking the truth, even in difficult times, and to embrace their unique paths, rather than conforming to traditional ideas of success. She views literature as a powerful tool for empathy and navigating life's challenges.

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Black Movie Review

Black Movie

Hello Everyone, This blog is not only  a movie review but also includes a comparison with R.K. Narayan's short story "Crime and Punishment."

Here deep reading of movie :Click Here

About the Movie :- 

Movie :- "Black"

Released in 2005 

Director :- Sanjay leela Bhansali 

In 2003, Sanjay Leela Bhansali announced his new project, Black. The idea for the film came to him after meeting several physically disabled children while filming Khamoshi: The Musical in the 1990s. The story of Black is inspired by the life of activist Helen Keller and her 1903 autobiography, The Story of My Life.

Movies are a powerful tool for enhancing our learning. By engaging us visually and emotionally, films can clarify complex ideas, spark critical thinking, and promote cultural understanding. They cater to different learning styles, improve language skills, and encourage active participation. When carefully selected, movies can significantly reinforce classroom lessons.

As part of our learning experience, the students of the Department of English at M.K. Bhavnagar University, Semester 3, has organized a screening of the 2005 film Black by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

This screening is organized in connection with R.K. Narayan's famous pre-independence short story, "Crime and Punishment." Through this event, we aim to analyze teaching methods and explore connections between child psychology, literature, and cinema.

Since this movie is based on the true story of Helen Keller and her teacher, Anne Sullivan, let's first take a look at the history behind the film.

History :

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Black is a powerful film that explores the strength of the human spirit. Inspired by his experiences with disabled children during the making of Khamoshi: The Musical, the film tells the story of Michelle, a deaf-blind girl, and her strict teacher, Debraj. Although it draws from Helen Keller's life, Black is not a biopic but a universal tale of hope and resilience. Bhansali's decision to film in black and white highlights the characters' isolation and sensory challenges. The film received widespread praise for its compelling storytelling, outstanding performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji, and Bhansali's skilled direction. Black remains a significant work in Indian cinema, inspiring viewers and leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

In the same way that Anne Sullivan guided Helen Keller, opening up a world of knowledge and communication, Debraj, played by Amitabh Bachchan, acts as the link between Michelle (Rani Mukerji) and the world. Both stories showcase the patience, determination, and love needed to teach someone with such severe sensory impairments.

While Black takes creative liberties, it captures the essence of the challenges and victories experienced by both Anne and Helen. The film vividly portrays the power of human connection and the ability to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles.

Cast:-

Michelle McNally:- Rani Mukerji 

Debraj Sahai:- Amitabh Bachchan

Michelle McNally :- Ayesha Kapur 

Sara McNally:- Nandana Sen 

Catherine:- Shernaz Patel 

Paul McNally:- Dhritiman Chatterjee 

Mrs. Nair:- Mahabanoo Mody-Kotwal

Mrs. Gomes:- Sillo Mahava 

Principal Fernan :- Chippy Gangjee

Martha:- Salome Roy Kapur 

Teacher:- Shehnaz Anand

Narrative Structure

Black uses a non-linear narrative that blends past and present to create tension and show the characters' depth. The story follows a cyclical pattern, reflecting Michelle’s journey from darkness to light and then back. This approach helps to explore the characters’ emotional journeys and the difficulties they encounter. Instead of a typical ending, the film’s climax is a moving moment of acceptance and understanding.

Cinematography

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s choice to film Black in black and white is a daring artistic decision. This monochrome style reflects how Michelle, the deaf-blind main character, experiences the world. The sharp contrasts between light and shadow serve as a visual language, symbolizing hope, knowledge, and Michelle's gradual understanding. Close-ups and long takes further enhance the emotional depth, pulling viewers into the characters' experiences.

Thematic Elements:

Black explores deep themes like human connection, persistence, and the impact of education. It looks at the complexities of the teacher-student relationship, questioning traditional ideas of authority and obedience. The film also examines how we perceive the world, highlighting the need for empathy and understanding. By focusing on a character with disabilities, it encourages inclusivity and challenges societal biases.

Film Studies Perspective :

From a film studies perspective, Black is a visual and storytelling masterpiece. The dark, muted cinematography reflects the protagonist's world, highlighting her isolation and difficulties. Bhansali’s use of light, especially in moments of insight and hope, adds symbolic depth. The film’s non-linear narrative matches the fragmented experience of someone who perceives the world mainly through touch and emotion. The character development of Michelle and Debraj showcases exceptional acting, with Amitabh Bachchan's portrayal of a passionate but troubled teacher and Rani Mukerji’s powerful, silent performance as Michelle standing out. The film’s exploration of darkness, light, hope, and the resilient human spirit is both deep and thought-provoking.

Child Psycology

Black offers a deep look into child psychology, especially concerning disability. It powerfully shows the struggles of a child who is both blind and deaf and the psychological effects of such a condition. Michelle's journey from darkness and silence to light and sound symbolizes human potential. The film emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment and effective communication for the development of a child with disabilities.

Michelle's behavior, reactions, and emotional growth are portrayed through her interactions with her teacher, Debraj. Despite her inability to communicate verbally, the film provides insight into her internal world and psychological state. It also depicts the psychological effects of being deaf and blind, such as isolation, frustration, and dependence. The film underscores the vital role of communication and education in a child’s development, even with severe sensory impairments. Additionally, the relationship between Michelle and Debraj shows how a strong, nurturing, and patient bond can profoundly impact a child with disabilities.

Education View

From an educational viewpoint, Black provides valuable lessons about special education. The film highlights the impact of creative teaching methods and the importance of personalized attention and innovative approaches to learning. Debraj Sahai’s unique techniques show that teachers need to move beyond traditional methods to effectively reach their students. The teacher-student relationship in the film emphasizes the importance of empathy, patience, and persistence in the learning process. Black serves as a powerful reminder of each child’s potential when given the right support and education.

The film's exploration of teaching methods, child psychology, and education is both insightful and thought-provoking. It challenges our perceptions, broadens our understanding, and celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.

Role of Parents

In Crime and Punishment, parents play a crucial role, as their actions greatly influence their children’s behavior. The protagonist’s significant freedom from his parents leads to erratic behavior and poor decisions, as his upbringing lacks proper discipline and moral guidance. Although the parents have good intentions, they fail to teach their child essential values and manners.

Similarly, in Black, the role of parents is also important. Michelle's mother and father are protective of her, and the film shows scenes where they are skeptical about Michelle’s teacher and his methods. This mirrors the situation in Crime and Punishment, where parental influence impacts the characters' lives.

Role of Teacher :

Crime and Punishment, the teacher avoids taking strong action against the protagonist despite his misbehavior. Although the teacher once slapped the student, he quickly regretted it, fearing the student might report him to his parents and cause trouble. His reluctance to address the student’s behavior is also influenced by the potential loss of income if the student leaves the class. This situation highlights how financial instability and low pay can affect a teacher’s ability to manage student behavior effectively.

In Black, a similar dynamic is evident. Debraj becomes a guiding light for Michelle, tolerating her behavior and fulfilling her needs. He continually protects her and helps her grow, almost as if he is giving her a new lease on life. His support plays a crucial role in her development and future success.

The film Black is both visually and narratively impressive. The use of black and white imagery reflects Michelle’s world, while light symbolizes hope and knowledge. The teacher’s role is central to Michelle’s success, showcasing how significant his influence is on her achievements.

Teaching Method

Black highlights how innovative teaching methods can unlock the potential of students with disabilities. Debraj Sahai's unique approach, which takes into account Michelle's specific needs, challenges traditional teaching methods. The film shows the importance of customizing instruction for each student and demonstrates how creativity and patience can greatly improve the learning experience for those with special needs.

Teacher - Student Relationship

Black is the deep teacher-student relationship between Debraj and Michelle. The film shows how a strong, empathetic connection can enhance learning. Debraj’s constant dedication and faith in Michelle’s abilities create a supportive environment that allows her to succeed. This depiction highlights the importance of human connection in education, showing that a teacher’s role goes beyond just teaching.

Learning Process :

Black provides a powerful portrayal of the learning process, especially for students facing significant challenges. The film shows the difficulties of learning when sensory input is limited and highlights the patience, perseverance, and creativity needed. Michelle's journey from total dependence to some level of independence illustrates the impact of structured, consistent, and personalized education. It underscores that learning is a slow and often tough process, but with the right support, impressive progress can be made.

Similarly, in Crime and Punishment, themes such as the role of parents and teachers are central. Black explores these themes in a comparable way, allowing for connections between the two. Let’s examine how these themes are linked in both films.

Here are movie screening photo :

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