Subjectivity historicism and universal humanism as patterns a study of the works of amitav ghosh

Abstract

The postcolonial rendering of Amitav Ghosh, which is a realistic presentation of the hegemony of colonization, and the sufferings of the people caused by geographical dislocation is a document advocating the need for universal humanism. In his multi- ethnic discourse, Ghosh views the problems of the voiceless through the prism of socio cultural entity. Having a long standing preoccupation with history, Ghosh emphasises the need for accommodating the difference. To eradicate socio-cultural ambivalence, which is the need of the hour, Ghosh views that cultural amalgamation is the remedy for the problems caused by cultural and religious parochialism. Nevertheless, Cultural Studies, which is an intellectual and pragmatic enterprise serves as a catalyst to understand the importance of recognising and maintaining various cultural identities and promoting social cohesion. Ghosh s holistic approach towards the necessity of the boarding and enhancement of one s identity stresses the need for the construction of a multi cultural identity. newline The present thesis entitled Subjectivity, Historicism and Universal Humanism as Patterns; A Study of the Works of Amitav Ghosh tries to stress the need for universal humanism as delineated in the writings of Amitav Ghosh. The researcher by analysing the views of Ghosh on universal humanism in both fictions and non fictions of Amitav Ghosh hypothesizes that Ghosh s antagonistic response against imperialism makes him a votary of the voiceless. Highlighting the need for a peripatetic self prefers transnationalism to regionalism. To him, humanness and mutual trust are the contributing newlinefactors for a vibrant society. Emphasising the need for cultural conglomeration, the writings of Ghosh, which are both Indian and Global in perception and treatment represent a fresh trend in today s postcolonial literature. The introductory chapter defines Subjectivity, classifies Historicism and New historicism and presents a brief note on New Humanist Movement. It also deals with the theme of postcolonial