Abstract

This study examines the historical memories and national identity of Tibetans in the novel 『Turbulent Shambhala』, written by Tashi Dawa, a contemporary Tibetan author. The lives and history of Tibetans have undergone major changes through the Democratic Reform Movement in 1959 and the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s. Using a unique Magical Realism technique, Tashi Dawa tries to recall the historical memories of Tibetans from that time and to find their identity in those memories. In particular, he utilizes the concepts of ‘reincarnation’ and ‘karma’ from Buddhism as magical elements. Thus, he uses magical elements to show how Tibetans view their forgotten history. It was confirmed that the loss experienced by Tibetans in the face of historical difficulties and social realities caused deep divisions and conflicts within Tibetan society, manifesting as neglect and indifference towards history, as well as conflict and criticism. The ambiguous delineation between reality and fantasy served as a means to induce change and reflection in the real world, ultimately reflecting the Tibetan desire to transcend the wounds and pains of reality.

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