Unveiling the Layers of Identity and Feminism: A Critical Exploration of Kamala Das's Autobiography

Authors

  • Alvin Joseph Assistant Professor of English, St. George’s College Aruvithura, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3281-037X

Keywords:

Sexuality, Gender, Feminism, Identity, Taboo

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to delve deeply into the autobiographical narrative of Kamala Das, meticulously dissecting her journey of self-discovery. It seeks to identify and analyze the intricate and often conflicting intersections of gender, culture, and tradition within her life experiences, as reflected in her autobiography.

Methodology and Approaches: The article adopts the analytical frameworks of Feminism in literary studies, engaging in a thorough examination of the themes of identity, gender roles, and societal expectations imposed upon women. By critically analyzing Kamala Das’s autobiographical writing, the study explores her vulnerabilities, personal desires, and lived experiences as a woman in a deeply entrenched patriarchal society.

Outcome: The research provides a comprehensive and insightful text that highlights Kamala Das’s relentless quest for self-discovery, fulfillment, and personal satisfaction as a woman. It brings to light the myriad challenges and societal hurdles she has had to confront and transcend in her pursuit of autonomy and self-definition.

Conclusion: By meticulously scrutinizing the intricate layers of Kamala Das’s autobiographical work, this study unravels the complexities of identity formation and examines the evolving landscape of Feminism in contemporary society. Through a close reading of her text, the article demonstrates the enduring relevance of Das’s narrative in challenging deeply rooted social hierarchies, redefining gender roles, and advocating for the empowerment of women.

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Author Biography

Alvin Joseph, Assistant Professor of English, St. George’s College Aruvithura, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala

Dr. Alvin Joseph is a scholar from Kerala, India. He is Assistant Professor of English at St. George’s College, Aruvithura, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University. He has presented papers at international conferences, including the International Comparative Literature Association Congress (Vienna, 2016) and the New Directions in the Humanities Conference (Granada, 2019). A member of the Comparative Literature Association of India and the ICLA, he received the International Academic Achievers Award (2022) and the Emerging Scholar Award (Rome, 2024).

Published

29.07.2024

How to Cite

1.
Alvin Joseph. Unveiling the Layers of Identity and Feminism: A Critical Exploration of Kamala Das’s Autobiography . SPL J. Literary Hermeneutics: Biannu. Int. J. Indep. Crit. Think [Internet]. 2024 Jul. 29 [cited 2025 Apr. 12];4(2):227-39. Available from: https://literaryherm.org/index.php/ojs/article/view/224