Assignment 2: Echoes of the Past: Memory and Trauma in 'Midnight's Children'

Name: Yashrajsinh Sodha

Topic: Echoes of the Past: Memory and Trauma in 'Midnight's Children'

Subject:  Indian English Literature – Post-Independence

Submitted to: Department of English 

Paper No: 202

Subject Code: 22407

Roll no: 28

Abstract : 

Salman Rushdie's 'Midnight's Children' delves into the intricate relationship between memory, trauma, and identity within the context of postcolonial India. Through the life of Saleem Sinai, the novel portrays how personal and collective memories intertwine, reflecting the socio-political upheavals of the time. Memory in the novel is fluid and subjective, shaped by emotions and historical events. Trauma, both individual and national, underscores the struggles of characters grappling with the impact of partition, independence, and political turmoil. Rushdie employs narrative techniques such as unreliable narration and magical realism to emphasize the complexities of memory and the process of healing. Ultimately, the novel underscores the importance of confronting trauma and reclaiming narratives for individual and societal reconciliation.  

Keywords: 

Memory, trauma, identity, postcolonial literature, Saleem Sinai, magical realism, unreliable narration, collective memory, healing, reconciliation, partition of India, postcolonial identity.  

Introduction

Salman Rushdie’s "Midnight's Children" is a landmark novel in postcolonial literature, blending historical narrative and magical realism to explore the complexities of identity, nationhood, and memory. Published in 1981, it tells the story of Saleem Sinai, a boy born at the exact moment of India’s independence from British rule. The novel intricately weaves together personal and collective histories, highlighting how memory and trauma shape the characters’ lives and the broader societal context of postcolonial India. Memory, as depicted in the novel, is not merely a recollection of past events but a dynamic and subjective force that influences individual identities and national narratives. Trauma, resulting from historical upheavals like the partition of India and the subsequent struggles for identity, plays a crucial role in understanding the characters and the collective psyche of the nation.

The Concept of Memory

In "Midnight's Children," memory is depicted as a fluid and subjective construct, reflecting the complexity of human experience. Rushdie illustrates that memory is not a straightforward recollection of events but is influenced by personal emotions, societal contexts, and historical narratives. This subjectivity of memory becomes evident through the fragmented recollections of Saleem Sinai, whose narrative is punctuated by lapses and distortions that mirror the chaos of his life and the tumultuous history of India. Memory serves as a mechanism for both personal and collective identity, allowing individuals to navigate their pasts while also connecting with a shared national narrative.

Saleem's memories are not only his own but also intertwined with the memories of a nation. As he recounts his experiences, he also taps into the collective memory of India, reflecting the struggles, joys, and traumas that shape the country’s identity. This interconnectedness of individual and collective memory underscores the idea that personal identities are often shaped by larger historical forces, making the exploration of memory essential to understanding the novel's themes.

Trauma and Its Representation

Trauma is a pervasive theme in "Midnight's Children," depicted through the experiences of Saleem Sinai and other characters who grapple with the consequences of historical events. Saleem's life is marked by a series of traumatic experiences, from the violence of the partition to the dislocation of his family during times of political unrest. The historical events that unfold parallel his personal experiences, illustrating how trauma transcends individual lives and becomes a collective burden borne by society.

The impact of historical events, such as the partition and independence, is palpable in the characters' lives. For instance, Saleem’s family, like many others, faces dislocation and violence, which leaves deep psychological scars. Rushdie effectively conveys the intensity of trauma through Saleem’s narrative, characterized by moments of chaos and confusion that reflect the broader societal upheaval. The trauma experienced by Saleem and his family echoes the trauma of a nation struggling to define itself amidst the chaos of postcolonial realities.

Saleem Sinai as a Symbol of India

Saleem Sinai, as the protagonist of "Midnight's Children," serves as a symbol of India itself. His personal history closely parallels the tumultuous history of the nation, making him a microcosm of Indian identity. Born at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, Saleem’s life is intricately tied to the fate of India, with his experiences reflecting the broader national traumas of partition, communal violence, and political instability.

As Saleem navigates his personal challenges, his memories reveal the complexities of postcolonial identity. His struggles with belonging, family dynamics, and societal expectations mirror the collective struggles faced by a nation in search of its identity. Saleem’s memories, filled with pain and confusion, highlight the fractured nature of Indian identity, shaped by historical events that continue to reverberate through the lives of its people. Through Saleem, Rushdie captures the essence of a nation grappling with its past while striving to forge a new identity.

Narrative Techniques

Rushdie employs various narrative techniques in "Midnight's Children" to convey the themes of memory and trauma. One of the most prominent techniques is the use of unreliable narration, as Saleem's account is often fragmented and subjective. This narrative style reflects the chaos and complexity of his memories, illustrating how trauma can distort one’s perception of reality. The unreliability of Saleem’s narration invites readers to question the authenticity of memory, emphasizing that recollections are often shaped by personal biases and emotional responses.

Additionally, Rushdie intertwines magical realism with traumatic memories, allowing fantastical elements to coexist with historical realities. This interplay enhances the emotional depth of the narrative, as magical elements serve as metaphors for the characters’ struggles with trauma. For instance, the presence of the midnight’s children, each endowed with unique powers, symbolizes the diverse experiences of individuals shaped by the same historical moment. By blending the magical with the historical, Rushdie captures the multifaceted nature of memory and trauma, emphasizing that the past is often experienced through a lens of imagination and myth.

The Role of Dreams and Imagination

Dreams play a significant role in "Midnight's Children," functioning as a means of processing trauma and memory. For Saleem, dreams become a refuge where he can confront his fears and desires, providing insight into his psychological state. Through dreams, Saleem navigates his traumatic past, attempting to make sense of his experiences and reconcile with the ghosts of his history.

Imagination also serves as a vital tool for coping with painful memories and historical events. As Saleem recalls moments from his life, he often embellishes or reinterprets them, illustrating how imagination can help individuals cope with trauma. This creative engagement with memory allows Saleem to navigate his complex identity, transforming painful recollections into narratives that provide meaning and understanding.

Rushdie’s exploration of dreams and imagination underscores the importance of storytelling in processing trauma. By allowing characters to engage with their memories imaginatively, the novel suggests that confronting the past can lead to healing and reconciliation, even in the face of overwhelming pain.

Collective vs. Individual Memory

The contrast between individual memories and collective memories is a central theme in "Midnight's Children." Saleem’s personal story, marked by trauma and chaos, is juxtaposed against the shared experiences of the Indian populace. This interplay highlights the significance of both individual and collective memories in shaping identity. While Saleem’s narrative offers a deeply personal account, it also serves as a representation of the broader collective memory of a nation grappling with its history.

Rushdie emphasizes the importance of oral histories and storytelling in preserving collective memory. The characters’ interactions and the sharing of their stories become a means of connecting personal experiences with the collective past. Through storytelling, individuals can reclaim their memories, creating a sense of continuity and belonging. This emphasis on narrative highlights the role of memory in forging connections between people, as shared experiences help build a collective identity rooted in history.

Healing and Reconciliation

The acknowledgment of trauma and the reclamation of memory can lead to healing and reconciliation, a theme that resonates throughout "Midnight's Children." As Saleem navigates his traumatic past, he begins to confront his experiences, ultimately seeking to understand and integrate them into his identity. This process of acknowledgment is essential for healing, as it allows characters to come to terms with their pain and reclaim their narratives.

Dattani’s exploration of healing extends beyond the individual, touching upon broader societal implications. The characters’ attempts to reconcile their pasts reflect the larger struggle of a nation seeking to address its historical traumas. Through the acknowledgment of pain and the embrace of collective memory, Rushdie suggests that healing is possible, paving the way for reconciliation and understanding in a fractured society.

The process of healing in "Midnight's Children" underscores the importance of confronting the past. By embracing their memories and sharing their stories, characters begin to dismantle the barriers that trauma creates, fostering connections and understanding. This message resonates powerfully, emphasizing the transformative potential of memory and the importance of addressing historical wounds for individual and societal healing.

Conclusion

In Midnight's Children, Salman Rushdie masterfully explores the themes of memory and trauma, illustrating how these concepts shape personal and collective identities. Through the experiences of Saleem Sinai and other characters, the novel reflects the complexities of navigating a postcolonial landscape marked by historical upheavals. The interplay between individual and collective memory, the role of dreams and imagination, and the potential for healing underscore the significance of addressing trauma in understanding identity and history.

Rushdie's work serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of memory in shaping our understanding of the past. By confronting trauma and reclaiming narratives, individuals and societies can work toward reconciliation and healing, ultimately forging a more cohesive identity. As "Midnight's Children" continues to resonate with readers, it invites critical reflection on the ways memory and trauma intertwine, shaping not only personal experiences but also the broader socio-political landscape.

References:

Arcak, Senar. Memory, Forgetting and Intertextuality in Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children and Two Years Eight Months Twenty Eight Nights. MS thesis. Middle East Technical University, 2022.

Rushdie, Salman. Midnight's Children: A Novel. Random House Publishing Group, 2006.

Assignment 1: Echoes of Society: Social Commentary in T. P. Kailasam's 'Curse or Karna'

Name: Yashrajsinh Sodha

Topic: Echoes of Society: Social Commentary in T. P. Kailasam's 'Curse or Karna'

Subject:  Indian English Literature – Pre-Independence

Submitted to: Department of English 

Paper No: 201

Subject Code: 22406

Roll No: 28

Abstract:

T. P. Kailasam’s play "Curse or Karna" offers a profound critique of social hierarchies by reinterpreting Karna, a marginalized figure from the Mahabharata. Through Karna’s struggles with identity, loyalty, and societal rejection, Kailasam highlights the challenges faced by those on the fringes of society. The play examines the complexities of caste, social norms, and personal belonging, drawing parallels to contemporary issues such as discrimination and inequality. By exploring Karna’s internal conflict and his loyalty to Duryodhana, Kailasam raises questions about societal expectations, identity formation, and the cost of navigating rigid social structures. The play’s relevance extends to modern discussions on social justice, making it a significant reflection on marginalization and inclusion.

Keywords:  

Mahabharata, social hierarchy, caste discrimination, marginalization, identity, loyalty, societal norms, social justice, inclusion, contemporary relevance.

Introduction

T. P. Kailasam, a significant figure in Indian literature, was known for his insightful plays that explored complex social issues through the lens of mythology and contemporary themes. His play "Curse or Karna," inspired by the epic Mahabharata, stands as a poignant commentary on the struggles faced by marginalized individuals in society. By reinterpreting Karna's character, Kailasam not only reflects on the epic's moral dilemmas but also critiques the rigid social hierarchies and norms that govern human interactions. This assignment aims to analyze how Kailasam's portrayal of Karna serves as a mirror to contemporary society, revealing the struggles of those who exist on the fringes and challenging established social hierarchies.

Contextual Background

The Mahabharata is a monumental work of Indian literature, recounting the tale of the Kurukshetra War between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Among its most compelling characters is Karna, the son of Kunti and the sun god, who, despite his noble lineage, is raised by a charioteer’s family and faces societal rejection. Karna's character is often seen as tragic; he is a figure of loyalty, valor, and the quest for identity. In "Curse or Karna," Kailasam draws from this rich mythological background to explore contemporary societal challenges, particularly issues of caste, identity, and the inherent inequalities that persist in modern life. By delving into Karna's story, Kailasam invites the audience to reflect on the social injustices that resonate in their own experiences.

Kailasam’s interpretation of Karna highlights the complexities of identity and belonging. While Karna is celebrated for his courage and skills as a warrior, his status as a charioteer's son casts a long shadow over his life. This tension between his abilities and societal perceptions forms the crux of Kailasam’s critique of contemporary issues, such as caste discrimination and the quest for dignity amidst systemic oppression. The play challenges audiences to consider how societal structures shape individual identities and experiences, making Karna a timeless symbol of resilience against adversity.

Character Analysis

Karna embodies the struggles of marginalized individuals in society, making him a powerful figure through which Kailasam explores themes of identity and acceptance. Throughout the play, Karna grapples with the curse of social stigma, which profoundly influences his decisions and relationships. Despite his exceptional talents, he is constantly reminded of his lowly origins, leading to feelings of isolation and resentment. His struggle is particularly poignant when he confronts his mother, Kunti, who abandoned him at birth. This encounter illustrates the painful reality of familial and societal rejection that many marginalized individuals face, highlighting the emotional turmoil that often accompanies a quest for identity.

Karna’s internal conflict is further complicated by his unwavering loyalty to Duryodhana, the leader of the Kauravas. This loyalty reflects the complexities of relationships formed under societal pressures, as Karna chooses to align himself with those who accept him, despite their morally questionable actions. His choices mirror the dilemmas faced by individuals in real life who often find themselves navigating conflicting loyalties in a world defined by social hierarchies. This theme resonates with contemporary audiences, as it raises questions about the cost of loyalty and the impact of social belonging on individual identity.

Moreover, Karna's tragic fate serves as a powerful commentary on the consequences of societal rejection. His life culminates in a series of betrayals that not only stem from his loyalty to Duryodhana but also from the broader societal forces that dictate his worth. Kailasam deftly illustrates how societal norms can trap individuals in cycles of loyalty and betrayal, ultimately leading to their downfall. Through Karna, the play challenges audiences to reflect on the implications of social acceptance and the often harsh realities faced by those who do not conform to societal expectations.

Themes of Marginalization

"Curse or Karna" explores several themes central to the experience of marginalized individuals, including loyalty, betrayal, and the search for identity. The play's focus on Karna's loyalty to Duryodhana underscores the complexities of relationships formed within oppressive social structures. Karna's loyalty is both a source of strength and a tragic flaw; while it provides him with a sense of belonging, it also leads him to align with morally ambiguous choices. This duality reflects the real-life struggles of individuals who often navigate conflicting loyalties to family, friends, and social groups in a quest for acceptance.

The theme of betrayal is equally significant, as it illustrates the fragility of relationships within hierarchical societies. Karna's eventual betrayal by the very people he trusted serves as a stark reminder of how societal norms can fracture personal bonds. This theme resonates with contemporary audiences, as it mirrors the betrayal experienced by those who dare to challenge social hierarchies or deviate from established norms. Kailasam’s portrayal of these dynamics prompts reflection on the nature of loyalty and the personal costs associated with navigating social expectations.

Karna’s search for identity is another crucial theme in the play. His quest for acceptance and validation reflects the broader struggle of marginalized individuals to assert their identity in a world that often diminishes their worth. Throughout the play, Karna grapples with the duality of his identity as both a skilled warrior and an outcast. This internal conflict resonates with contemporary issues of identity formation, as individuals increasingly navigate complex intersections of race, class, and gender. Kailasam's exploration of Karna's identity invites audiences to reconsider how societal structures shape personal narratives and the ongoing quest for recognition and belonging.

Reflection on Societal Norms

Kailasam’s play critiques traditional social norms by examining the expectations placed upon individuals within society. Through Karna's character and the choices he faces, the play highlights the oppressive nature of rigid social structures. Specific scenes, such as Karna's interactions with Kunti and Duryodhana, reveal the pressures individuals endure to conform to societal expectations. For instance, Kunti's revelation of her identity as Karna's mother underscores the societal stigma associated with his birth, further complicating their relationship. This tension illustrates how societal norms can fracture familial bonds and perpetuate cycles of shame and rejection.

Additionally, the play explores the concept of masculinity and the expectations placed upon male characters in the narrative. Karna's struggle to assert his worth as a warrior is intertwined with societal ideals of masculinity, which often equate valor with social acceptance. Kailasam critiques these norms by demonstrating how they can lead to destructive behaviors and choices, ultimately raising questions about the true nature of strength and identity. This reflection on societal norms challenges audiences to confront their own complicity in perpetuating harmful stereotypes and expectations.

Through dialogue and characterization, Kailasam underscores the destructive nature of rigid social structures, prompting audiences to reflect on the implications of these norms in their own lives. The play serves as a powerful reminder of the need for empathy and understanding in a world often defined by division and prejudice. By presenting characters who navigate the complexities of social norms, Kailasam encourages critical discussions about the responsibilities individuals bear towards one another in fostering a more inclusive society.

Contemporary Relevance

The themes and characters in "Curse or Karna" resonate powerfully with current social issues, including caste discrimination, economic inequality, and rigid gender roles. Just as Karna faces discrimination due to his origins, marginalized groups today continue to confront systemic barriers that hinder their opportunities and rights. For example, the caste system remains deeply entrenched in Indian society, perpetuating cycles of inequality and discrimination that reflect the struggles depicted in Kailasam’s play. By drawing parallels between Karna’s experiences and contemporary issues, the play encourages audiences to engage with the ongoing dialogues surrounding social justice and equity.

Furthermore, the play’s exploration of loyalty and betrayal can be connected to contemporary movements advocating for social change. Activists and marginalized communities often face dilemmas of loyalty as they navigate relationships within and outside their groups. The sacrifices made by individuals in pursuit of justice echo Karna's tragic fate, emphasizing the personal costs associated with challenging oppressive systems. Kailasam’s work thus serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of these themes, prompting critical discussions about the role of individuals in dismantling unjust societal structures.

The play also raises questions about the intersection of technology and identity in the modern world. As society grapples with the implications of rapid technological advancement, individuals increasingly confront challenges related to identity and representation. Kailasam’s exploration of Karna's identity becomes even more pertinent in a contemporary context, where individuals navigate complex online identities and the pressures of social media. The play encourages audiences to reflect on how these contemporary dynamics influence their understanding of self and belonging in an increasingly interconnected yet fragmented world.

Conclusion

In summary, T. P. Kailasam’s "Curse or Karna" provides a rich social commentary that reflects the complexities of contemporary society. Through the character of Karna and the exploration of themes such as marginalization, loyalty, and societal norms, the play invites audiences to confront difficult truths about identity and belonging. Kailasam’s ability to connect historical narratives with present-day issues underscores the timeless relevance of his writing, encouraging ongoing dialogue about social justice and equity. The play not only highlights the struggles faced by marginalized individuals but also calls for a more inclusive and compassionate society, making it a significant work in the landscape of modern Indian theatre.

References:

Kailasam, T. P. The Curse or Karna. 1946.

A Cultural Studies Approach to Frankenstein

This blog is written as a task assigned by Prof. Dilip Barad (MKBU). The blog is about a novel 'Frankenstein' written by Mary Shelley and its effects on cultural studies. For further information you can visit following link.

Teacher's Blog

Part 1: Revolutionary Births

How does the Creature’s paradoxical nature—simultaneously an  innocent and a vengeful force—comment on societal fears of revolution and sympathy for the suffering masses?

Ans. 

Society expects a certain type of behaviour that is generally done by everyone. When the monster is created he is seen as a monster who does not belong to the society. In look and behaviour vise too. So when he is different from the general accepted behaviour from the society, he is seen as a thread to the society. He seems a vengeance creature who only knows the violence.

But in postcolonialism the creature is seen as innocent because in his being as he was there is very little choice he has. He learns what he has seen in the world outside. His creator has abandoned him when he needed him the most. He can be also seen as a marginalised community, African community or slave community who are physically very strong and they are seen as Other and treated in different manner than the normal people. So the monster also represents that identity of the marginalised community. 

In the political system it is always expected that the masses behave in a certain way that they get the benefit out of that but when any community or individual goes against it they are seen as a threat to society. The same also happens to the monster. 

How does Shelley’s narrative engage with concepts of race and empire, and how might these issues be relevant today in global discourses on race and privilege?

Ans.

If it is looked into the colonial mindset then it can be read as a master who has made the monster that it can be depicted as a coloniser who is controlling the colonised. How the African community were treated during the colonial rule that they teach everything to them. And while making a monster and not teaching him anything can be read as the guilt of a coloniser. 

For instance on the floor of Parliament on March 16,1824 George Canning has said that the abolition of the slave act is like freeing a monster in the reference to Mary Shelley’s Frannkeistein. This shows how the concept of Other and racism can be read through the monster narratives. 

How do modern scientific advancements parallel the novel's cautionary tale of human hubris, and what lessons can we learn from it?

Ans.

Along with scientific advancement there has been a constant fear from the new creation that grew throughout human history. And scientific development that can be harmful to the people can be read in the context of Shelley' Frankenstein. In contemporary time there is scientific development in which the genes can be modified and the expected result of the babies can be produced. Through  the  growth of AI there is also a constant feat that Ai may take over the world and become harmful to human beings.

There is much literature produced on the similar concept. The new genes of the body can be harmful to the normal people or they would be harmful for the society that are seen by many. Movies on similar ideas also made that robots may take over the world. This gives a cautionary tale that if we create something that will have its own intelligence then it's our responsibility to do no harm to people and to the world. One has to make sure that at what capacity something new could be harmful to people. 

Part 2: The Frankenpheme in Popular Culture

How have various retellings of Frankenstein reshaped its message for new audiences? How do these adaptations either retain or transform the novel’s original critique of scientific ambition and social exclusion?

Ans.
In the 18th century there was a great fear that if something like a monster or scientific development is made the life of the humans are in danger. But slowly and steadily we started living among these types of scientific development and the fear of scientific development decreased.

In many narratives still we find the same dreads to the new scientific world but then our stories started to change. Then we look at them with great care and find the fault in the narratives. In the new version these types of creatures started to become the protagonist of the tale. People started to see scientific development as their friend rather than enemy.

Discuss how the Creature’s literary education shapes his worldview and whether it empowers or alienates him further?

Ans.
When Creature reads ‘Sorrows of Young Werther’ by Goethe, and parts of ‘Plutarch's Lives’ and ‘Paradise Lost’ by Milton he becomes more and more aware about human nature. When started to feel as a human being he craves for his partner. He craves human affection. He tried to help people but all he got was hatred and disgust. So finds his master and says that's why he has done this with him. These are the human qualities that he gets from reading the literary text. 

Research the historical and cultural context of these adaptations. How do they reflect societal fears and technology?

Ans. 

Frankenstein films show how people’s fears changed over time by adding new ideas to the original story. Early movies, like the famous one with the creature made from a "criminal brain," reflect fears of dangerous science and ideas like eugenics, where people thought certain types of people shouldn’t be allowed to have children. Later, movies such as “Frankenstein vs. the Giant Devil Fish” added fears from World War II, like worries about radiation and powerful new weapons that could harm people.

In more recent films, like “Blade Runner” and “The 6th Day”, we see people’s worries about robots and cloning. In these stories, characters are sometimes made in labs and used for dangerous jobs, showing fears that technology could take over people’s lives. Each version of Frankenstein takes the original story and changes it to match the fears and ideas of its time.

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Exploring Marginalization in Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

This blog is written as a task assigned by Prof. Dilip Barad. The blog is on Cultural Studies in which marginalized characters are seen as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and through the lens of 'Hamlet'. For further info visit following article.  Teacher's Blog

 1. Marginalization in Hamlet

Describe how Rosencrantz and Guildenstern represent marginal figures in Hamlet. How does Hamlet’s reference to Rosencrantz as a “sponge” reflect their expendability in the power dynamics of the play?

Ans:

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are the marginalised character from the Shakkesspeare’s play Hamlet. When Claudeus sees Hamlet as a threat he sends him to Engloand with the letter that says that when he reached there he should be killed. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were also sent with him so can not reach but in the mid journey Hamlet gets to know the truth and he writes the name of t Rosencrantz and Guildenstern in the letter so they are killed in England. Ald when fights and the message comes from England that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead. 

These two belonged to a marginalised community who work for the authority and they are dead without any mistakes. In the journey there is a conversation there Hamlet Calls them Sponge and pawns. 

"Hamlet: . . . Besides, to be demanded of a sponge! What replication should be made by the son of a king?

Rosencrantz: Take you me for a sponge, my lord?

Hamlet: Aye, sir, that soaks up the King's countenance,his rewards, his authorities. But such officers do the King best service in the end. He keeps them, like an ape, in the corner of his jaw, first mouthed, to be last swallowed."

This shows how they are treated by powerful people. The same situation can be seen in the context of contemporary time also. Politicians and Businessmen are exploiting the poor and middle class people. They are also treated the same as Rosengrent and Gulden stan are treated in the play.  

2. Modern Parallels to Corporate Power

The passage compares Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to modern workers impacted by corporate downsizing and globalisation. Reflect on this parallel: How does their fate in Hamlet mirror the displacement

experienced by workers when multinational companies relocate or

Downsize?

Ans. 

In the corporate sector all the workers are exploited. They have to work real hard and in return they also get very less salary. They are mere puppets of the corporation who work for them. Not a minimum salary decided by the government is given to the employees. More and more privatisation of various government sectors are being done in which private companies only work to make a profit. They don’t think about their employees. 

Whenever the employees are unwanted they are fired from the companies. In the work like ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ by Mohsid Hamid gives insight of the same. In which there is shown a reality of the corporate people and how for the business and profit purposes the people are downsized from the multinational companies. The whole market or corporation is all about profit. The focus is all on the capital rather than human welfare. 

3. Existential Questions in Stoppard’s Re-interpretation

In Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, Stoppard deepens their

marginalisation by questioning their existence and purpose. Why might

Stoppard emphasise their search for meaning in a world indifferent to

them? How does this mirror the feeling of powerlessness in today’s

corporate environments?

Ans.

When Hamlet says that “they were not near my conscience” shows his indifference towards the marginalised community, the same is with today’s corporate  world the employees are not near the conscience of the owner of the company. When everyone is dead and the message that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead show that there is no one that would hear the news of the dead also.

Same with the contemporary workers if they are dead or alive how they manage to work and how much they should be paid is totally neglected in the corporate world. This shows that even the death of these employees can not make the corporate owners understand the situation of the subalterns. That is why Stoppard has reinterpreted the whole narrative and questioned the authority. 

4. Cultural and Economic Power Structures

Compare Shakespeare’s treatment of power in Hamlet to Stoppard’s

reimagining. How does each work critique systems that marginalise

“little people”? How might Stoppard’s existential take resonate with

contemporary issues of job insecurity and corporate control?

Ans.

In today's corporate world there is too little care taken by the employees in most corporations. They are treated as animals who work for them.  As we have discussed earlier, there are too few jobs available in the government sections. And now corporate and governments work together so the marginalised only have to suffer the conce3quincs.

Because the government receives funds from the corporate to run the propaganda campaigns, so whenever any policies are made it would be in the favour of corporations only. They work together and do fraud with the peasant class people. In the private sector when people get aged and unable to work they have to leave the company without any pension and payment. Employees give their whole life to grow the company and when they are unable to work they are off the companies. Nowadays the government is not giving that much amount of jobs to the citizens so they have to work in the private sector with all the exploitation. 

5. Personal Reflection

How does the marginalisation of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern in

Hamlet relate to the modern experience of being seen as a dispensable

“asset”? Reflect on how these parallels shape your understanding of

Cultural Studies and power dynamics.

Ans. 

In the power dynamics of Hamlet and his uncle Claudius Rosengton and Guildenstern are killed, they are used as dispensable “assets”, who are used until they are dead. In the same manner one can see that in the corporations the employees are used to work there their whole life and at the end when they are unable to in the corporation they are sent off. 

When they are young they are used  as an asset and when they are no longer in use they throw them out from the company they have given so many years of their life. These show the monopoly of the corporates and utilitarian concept of taking work. 

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