Social Inequality: A Multidimensional Study of Some Selective Works

Abstract

This paper focuses on the concept of social inequality from the point of view of critical analysis of some poems, fiction and non-fictional prose. It brings into light the prevalent caste system in the society and tries to find its root. Not only this, the aim of this paper is to highlight the condition of the women in the society from the point of view of feminism. Through the critical analysis of the literary writings, this paper draws one’s attention to the process of horizon making by representing the fact behind all binary oppositions like male/female; civilized/uncivilized etc. To reach at the above mentioned goal, this paper takes into account the writings of Jotirao Phule’s “Caste Laws”(essays), Prem Chand’s “Deliverance”(fiction), Hira Bansode’s “Bosom Friend”, Jamaica Kincaid’s “Girl” (prose monologue),and Amitav Ghosh’s “Count Down” (nonfiction) etc. It tries to find out the location of the subaltern group in the society. It shows the helpless condition of this group who remains detached from the main current of the society and remains as a silent group. Jotirao Phule’s essay “Caste Laws” discusses the social inequality from the point of view of mythical and historical context. This work puts into question the binary opposition of Devas/Daityas as it has been depicted in the Hindu mythologies and also tries to forward a solution of this caste problem. On the other hand, Hira Bansode’s “Bosom Friend” brings into light the demarcative attitude of the educated people in this modern era. Jamaica Kincaid’s “Girl” focuses on the conservative attitude of the society towards girl. And Premchand’s fiction “Deliverance” focuses on the caste system and the hypocrisy of Brahmanism representing the happenings in the life of Dukhi, a character in the story. Thus this paper analyses social inequality as it has been depicted in various literary writings from different perspectives.