Reconceptualization of Gender Relations in Saeed’s Amal Unbound and Rao’s Girls Burn Brighter

Abstract

This study examines gender relations in Saeed's 'Amal Unbound' and Rao's 'Girls Burn Brighter. The basic aim of this study is to review the existing patriarchal norms that exploit women. This comparative analysis seeks to offer a postmodern feminist worldview by redefining and reconceptualizing women's status, explaining their strengths, and granting them subject status. This study questions the concepts of rationality that perpetuate normative gender stereotypes and demands a brand new way of conceptualizing truth by breaking down the categories. It challenges the authorities, stereotypes, icons, and sexist values. Both texts that are examined in this study are set in the backdrop of the socio-cultural milieu of Pakistan and India. By presenting the cultures of two different countries, an effort has been put in to reconsider gender relations as a means of resistance. It reflects on the relationship between women and the environment and recognizes women's steadfastness in the face of oppression. Furthermore, an attempt has been made to undo patriarchal male coercion and explore the reasons for the continued proliferation of conscious and unconscious objectification of women.