Question

One of the earliest Indian English novels dealing with freedom struggle as major focus written by Raja Rao is ;

• A. The Serpent and the Rope
• B. Kanthapura
• C. The English Teacher
• D. untouchable

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Kanthapura

Kanthapura: A Landmark in Indian English Literature

• Author: Raja Rao, a prominent figure in Indian English writing, penned Kanthapura.
• Publication Year: The novel was first published in 1938.
• Significance: It is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most significant Indian English novels to prominently feature the Indian freedom struggle as its central theme.
• Narrative Style: The story is narrated by Achakka, a village woman, which lends a distinct and authentic voice to the narrative, reflecting the oral traditions of storytelling.
• Setting: The novel is set in the fictional village of Kanthapura in the Mysore province (present-day Karnataka).
• Inspiration: The novel draws heavily from the Gandhian movement and the principles of non-violent civil disobedience. Mahatma Gandhi's influence is palpable throughout the narrative.
• Key Themes:
  • The struggle for independence from British rule.
  • The impact of the freedom movement on rural Indian society.
  • The role of ordinary people, especially women, in the struggle.
  • The clash between tradition and modernity.
  • The concept of 'Satyagraha' and its implementation at the grassroots level.
• Characters:
  • Moorthy: The young, idealistic protagonist inspired by Gandhi, who leads the villagers' resistance.
  • Achakka: The elderly narrator who recounts the events.
  • Sartory: A tyrannical British police officer representing the oppressive regime.
• Literary Contributions: Raja Rao's use of language in Kanthapura is noteworthy. He masterfully blends English with Indian linguistic patterns and folk idioms, creating a unique literary style that reflects the Indian sensibility.
• Impact on Indian English Novel: Kanthapura paved the way for subsequent novels that explored Indian socio-political realities and the nationalist movement, establishing a tradition of politically engaged literature in English from India.