Cultural Dilemmas Beyond Borders: Xenocentric and Ethnocentric Explorations in Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake

Abstract

This research paper endeavours to examine the manifestations of xenocentric and ethnocentric behaviours exhibited by the immigrant characters within Jhumpa Lahiri’s diasporic narrative The Namesake (2003). It aims to meticulously scrutinize and analyse instances within the storyline where these characters demonstrate attitudes or actions that reflect either a preference for foreign culture (xenocentric behaviour) or a bias towards their own culture (ethnocentric behaviour) within the diasporic context. The paper seeks to delve deeper into these occurrences to understand their implications and significance in the characters' experiences and interactions within the diasporic setting portrayed in the novel. The novel brilliantly illustrates these contrasting attitudes within the diasporic context, portraying the tension between embracing a new culture and preserving one's heritage. The characters' interactions with each other and their surroundings depict the complexity of diasporic life, where clashes between differing cultural values often lead to moments of introspection and conflict. Lahiri intricately weaves these instances throughout the novel, showcasing how xenocentric and ethnocentric behaviours shape the characters' identity, choices, relationships, and sense of belonging in a foreign land.