MEG – 14
Contemporary Indian Literature in English Translation
MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
IGNOU MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment January 2023
Q 1. What do you understand by ‘Idea of India’ as a ‘Nation’?
Ans.The “Idea of India” is a term that refers to the concept of India as a nation-state. It encompasses the diverse cultures, languages, religions, and ethnicities that make up the country.
The Idea of India is not just a geographical concept but a shared set of values, beliefs, and aspirations that unite its people.
The Idea of India has evolved over the centuries, reflecting the changing realities of its people and their historical experiences.
India has a long and complex history, spanning over several millennia. It has been home to various civilizations, religions, and empires.
The idea of India as a nation-state began to take shape during the Indian independence movement in the early 20th century.
The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, played a crucial role in articulating the idea of India as a nation.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The idea of India as a nation is based on the principles of democracy, secularism, and pluralism. Democracy is the bedrock of the Indian state, and it ensures that power is vested in the people.
India is the world’s largest democracy, and its constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to its citizens.
India is a secular country, which means that the state is neutral towards religion and treats all religions equally. This ensures that all citizens have the right to practice their religion without discrimination. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Pluralism is another essential principle of the Idea of India, which recognizes and celebrates diversity. India is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and religions, and the Idea of India embraces this diversity.
The Idea of India also recognizes the historical injustices that have been committed against marginalized communities.
India has a long history of caste-based discrimination, which has been perpetuated for centuries.
The Indian Constitution recognizes this injustice and provides for affirmative action to redress historical injustices. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The Idea of India also recognizes the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Women have played a significant role in India’s history and continue to do so today.
The Idea of India has also been shaped by its cultural heritage. India has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which includes literature, art, music, and dance.
The Indian tradition has influenced the world in many ways, and its contributions are recognized globally. The Idea of India recognizes the importance of preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage.
The Idea of India has been challenged by various factors over the years. One of the significant challenges is communalism, which is the tendency to prioritize one’s religion over the national interest. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Communalism has led to violence and bloodshed in India and has threatened the Idea of India.
Another challenge is regionalism, which is the tendency to prioritize one’s region over the national interest. Regionalism has led to demands for secession and autonomy in some parts of India.
The Idea of India has also been challenged by economic inequality. Despite being one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India continues to grapple with poverty and inequality. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The Idea of India recognizes the importance of inclusive growth and development, which ensures that the benefits of economic growth are shared by all.
One of the unique features of the Idea of India is its ability to accommodate diverse cultures and beliefs. India is home to multiple religions, languages, and ethnicities, and the Idea of India recognizes and celebrates this diversity.
The Indian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion, language, and culture, and ensures that all citizens are equal before the law.
The Idea of India also recognizes the importance of dialogue and engagement with different cultures and beliefs. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
This has led to a rich and vibrant cultural exchange in India, where different communities learn from each other and celebrate their differences.
Finally, the Idea of India is not just a concept but a lived reality for millions of people. India is a vibrant democracy, where people have the freedom to express their opinions, protest peacefully, and hold their government accountable.
India is also a country where people come together in times of crisis, demonstrating a strong sense of community and solidarity. The Idea of India is not static but dynamic, reflecting the changing realities of its people.
The Idea of India is a powerful force that inspires its people to work towards a better future, where every citizen is treated with dignity and respect, and where diversity is celebrated.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Q 2. Account for the rich scope of comparative studies in studying Indian Literature.
Ans. Indian literature has a rich and diverse tradition that has been shaped by various historical, cultural, and linguistic factors.
The scope of comparative studies in Indian literature is vast and provides a unique opportunity to explore the shared and distinct characteristics of Indian literature with other literatures of the world.
Comparative studies in Indian literature not only help in understanding the similarities and differences between Indian literature and other literatures but also shed light on the intercultural dialogues and exchanges that have taken place over the centuries.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
One of the primary reasons for the rich scope of comparative studies in Indian literature is its multilingual nature. India is a country with diverse languages and literatures, and each language has its unique literary tradition.
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore the different literary traditions of India and to understand the cultural and historical factors that have shaped them.
For example, comparative studies between Hindi literature and Bengali literature can provide insights into the similarities and differences between these two literary traditions and help in understanding the unique cultural and linguistic factors that have contributed to their development.
Another reason for the rich scope of comparative studies in Indian literature is its engagement with different literary genres and forms.
Indian literature has a long history of engaging with various literary genres such as poetry, drama, and prose. Indian literature has also been influenced by different literary forms such as epic, myth, and folklore.
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore the different literary genres and forms of Indian literature and to understand how they have been influenced by other literary traditions.
For example, a comparative study between Indian epic poetry and European epic poetry can provide insights into the similarities and differences between these two literary traditions and help in understanding the cultural and historical factors that have contributed to their development.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The rich scope of comparative studies in Indian literature also stems from its engagement with different literary themes and motifs. Indian literature has engaged with a wide range of themes such as love, war, religion, and social issues.
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore these themes in different literary traditions and to understand how they have been represented and interpreted in different cultural and historical contexts.
For example, a comparative study between Indian love poetry and European love poetry can provide insights into the similarities and differences between these two literary traditions and help in understanding the cultural and historical factors that have contributed to their development.
Another reason for the rich scope of comparative studies in Indian literature is its engagement with different literary techniques and styles.
Indian literature has developed its unique literary techniques and styles such as alankara, rasa, and dhvani. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore these literary techniques and styles in different literary traditions and to understand how they have been influenced by other literary traditions.
For example, a comparative study between Indian literary techniques and Japanese literary techniques can provide insights into the similarities and differences between these two literary traditions and help in understanding the cultural and historical factors that have contributed to their development.
Comparative studies in Indian literature also provide a platform for exploring the global impact and reception of Indian literature. Indian literature has gained popularity worldwide, and its translation into different languages has facilitated cross-cultural exchanges.
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore the reception of Indian literature in different cultural and linguistic contexts and to understand how it has been adapted and interpreted in different parts of the world.
Moreover, comparative studies in Indian literature also allow for a critical examination of the historical and cultural context of Indian literature.
Indian literature has been shaped by various cultural, social, and political forces, and a comparative analysis of Indian literature with other literatures can help in understanding how these forces have shaped its development.
Comparative studies can also help in identifying the gaps and silences in Indian literature and in uncovering the marginalized voices and narratives that have been excluded from mainstream literature.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
comparative studies in Indian literature can contribute to the development of a more inclusive and diverse literary canon.
Indian literature has traditionally been dominated by the literary canon of Sanskrit and the literary traditions of the northern regions of India.
However, comparative studies in Indian literature can help in exploring the diverse literary traditions of India and in identifying the contributions of writers from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
This can contribute to the development of a more comprehensive and inclusive literary canon that reflects the diversity of Indian literature.
Finally, the rich scope of comparative studies in Indian literature is due to its engagement with different historical and cultural contexts.
Indian literature has been shaped by various historical and cultural factors such as religion, politics, and social issues. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Comparative studies in Indian literature provide an opportunity to explore the different historical and cultural contexts of Indian literature and to understand how they have influenced its development.
For example, a comparative study between Indian literature and African literature can provide insights into the similarities and differences between these two literary traditions and help in understanding the historical and cultural factors that have contributed to their development.
Q 3. What are the thematic preoccupations of the writer in Samskara? Discuss.
Ans. Samskara is a novel written by the prominent Kannada writer U.R. Ananthamurthy, which was published in 1965.
The novel explores various themes and preoccupations of the writer, such as caste, tradition, modernity, gender, and spirituality.
Caste is one of the central themes of Samskara, which reflects the deep-rooted caste system in Indian society. The novel portrays the lives of the Brahmins, who are the highest caste in the Hindu social hierarchy. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The story revolves around the dilemma faced by the Brahmin community when a prostitute named Chandri dies in their village.
According to Hindu customs, a proper funeral is to be given to every individual, but the Brahmins are conflicted as to whether or not Chandri, being a prostitute, deserves the same funeral rites as others.
The novel portrays the hypocrisy and prejudices of the Brahmin community towards the lower castes and women. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The character of Praneshacharya, the protagonist, is caught between the traditional beliefs of his community and his own rational thinking.
Tradition and modernity are another significant theme in Samskara. The novel reflects the conflict between tradition and modernity in Indian society.
Praneshacharya is a traditional Brahmin who adheres to the customs and rituals of his community.
However, he is exposed to the new ideas and beliefs of the modern world, which create a conflict within him. He is torn between his traditional beliefs and the modern values of rationality and individualism.
The novel portrays the struggle of the individual to reconcile the conflict between tradition and modernity.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Gender is also a significant theme in Samskara. The novel portrays the oppression and marginalization of women in Indian society.
The character of Chandri, the prostitute, represents the plight of women in society who are forced into prostitution due to social and economic reasons.
The novel portrays the hypocrisy of the Brahmin community towards women and the double standards prevalent in society.
The character of Praneshacharya’s wife, Saraswati, is also significant, as she represents the traditional roles assigned to women in society.
She is portrayed as a submissive and obedient wife who follows the rules and customs of her community. The novel also explores the theme of female sexuality and the taboos surrounding it.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
Spirituality is another important theme in Samskara. The novel explores the quest for spiritual enlightenment and the search for the meaning of life.
Praneshacharya, the protagonist, is portrayed as a spiritual seeker who questions the traditional beliefs of his community.
He is torn between the material world and the spiritual world and seeks answers to his existential questions. The novel also explores the concept of karma and the consequences of one’s actions in life.
The character of Chandri, the prostitute, is portrayed as someone who has been ostracized by society due to her past actions and is seeking redemption through her death.
Samskara is a seminal work in Indian literature that has had a significant impact on the literary and cultural landscape of India. It has been translated into several languages and has been adapted into plays and films.
The novel’s portrayal of the conflict between tradition and modernity, the marginalization of women, and the quest for spiritual enlightenment has resonated with readers across generations.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The novel’s relevance is particularly significant in the contemporary context, as India continues to grapple with issues of caste, gender, and modernity.
The novel provides a critical commentary on the oppressive social and cultural norms that continue to marginalize women and lower castes in Indian society.
It raises important questions about the role of tradition and modernity in shaping the individual’s identity and provides a nuanced exploration of the conflict between these two forces.
Overall, Samskara is a powerful work that reflects the thematic preoccupations of the writer, such as caste, tradition, modernity, gender, and spirituality.
The novel’s impact on Indian literature and culture cannot be overstated, and it remains a significant work that continues to be relevant and influential to this day.
Q 4. Discuss the theme of communalism and its treatment in the novel ‘Tamas’.
Ans. ‘Tamas’ is a novel written by Bhisham Sahni, which was published in 1974. The novel explores the theme of communalism and its destructive impact on Indian society during the Partition of India in 1947.
The novel’s portrayal of communalism and its treatment is powerful and insightful, and provides a critical commentary on the social and political realities of India.
Communalism is one of the central themes of ‘Tamas’, which reflects the deep-rooted religious tensions in Indian society. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The novel portrays the lives of various communities, such as Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs, who are caught up in the violence and chaos of the Partition.
The novel’s depiction of communalism is powerful and stark, and reflects the brutal reality of the violence and hatred that was unleashed during this period.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is critical and insightful. It exposes the hypocrisy and prejudices of the different communities, and shows how these prejudices fuelled the violence and bloodshed.
The novel portrays how the leaders of the different communities, who are supposed to be the custodians of peace and harmony, become the instigators of violence and hatred.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is also nuanced and complex. It shows how communalism is not just a result of religious differences, but is also a product of economic, social, and political factors.
The novel portrays how the colonial legacy of divide and rule, coupled with the economic interests of the elites, created a fertile ground for communalism to thrive.
The novel also explores the psychological impact of communalism on individuals and communities. It shows how communalism creates a sense of fear and mistrust, which leads to the breakdown of social and familial ties.
The novel portrays the trauma and pain that the different communities experience as a result of the violence and hatred that is unleashed during the Partition.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is also relevant in the contemporary context. India continues to grapple with communal tensions, and the novel’s portrayal of communalism provides a critical commentary on the social and political realities of India. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The novel’s message of peace and harmony is particularly relevant in the current context, where communal tensions continue to threaten the fabric of Indian society.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is also significant in the context of literature. ‘Tamas’ is a powerful work that has had a significant impact on Indian literature and culture.
It has been translated into several languages and has been adapted into plays and films. The novel’s portrayal of communalism has inspired other writers and artists to explore this theme in their works.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is also significant in the context of history. The novel provides a vivid and detailed account of the violence and chaos that was unleashed during the Partition.
It exposes the myths and lies that were propagated during this period, and shows how the different communities were pitted against each other for political gain.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is also significant in the context of politics.
The novel provides a critical commentary on the political realities of India, and shows how the political leaders of the different communities use communalism for their own gain. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The novel’s message of peace and harmony is a powerful reminder of the need for political leaders to rise above their narrow interests and work towards the common good.
In conclusion, ‘Tamas’ is a powerful work that explores the theme of communalism and its destructive impact on Indian society during the Partition.
The novel’s treatment of communalism is critical, insightful, and nuanced. It exposes the hypocrisy and prejudices of the different communities, and shows how communalism is a product of economic, social, and political factors.
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Q 5. Discuss the various symbols and motifs used in the play ‘Tughlaq’.
Ans.”Tughlaq” is a play written by Girish Karnad in 1964. The play is set in the 14th century, and it revolves around the life of a ruler named Tughlaq.
The play is known for its powerful political commentary and its use of symbols and motifs. In this essay, we will discuss the various symbols and motifs used in the play “Tughlaq.”MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
The first symbol that we encounter in the play is the throne. The throne represents power and authority. Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq struggling to maintain his grip on the throne.
He is constantly trying to consolidate his power by making alliances with various factions. However, his attempts often backfire, and he is forced to resort to violence to maintain his authority.
Another important symbol in the play is the sword. The sword is a symbol of violence and aggression.
Tughlaq is a ruthless ruler who is not afraid to use violence to maintain his power. We see this in the way he deals with his enemies and his own ministers.
He is quick to execute anyone who he perceives as a threat to his authority.
The third symbol in the play is the horse. The horse represents freedom and mobility. Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq trying to expand his empire by conquering new territories. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
He does this by riding on horseback and leading his army into battle. However, as the play progresses, we see Tughlaq becoming increasingly isolated and trapped in his own web of deceit.
The fourth symbol in the play is the mask. The mask is a symbol of deception and disguise.
Tughlaq is a master of disguise, and he often uses masks to hide his true intentions. We see this in the way he deals with his ministers and his enemies.
He is always one step ahead of them, and he is able to manipulate them to do his bidding.
The fifth symbol in the play is the bell. The bell represents the voice of the people. Throughout the play, we see the people of Delhi ringing bells to protest against Tughlaq’s policies. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
They are unhappy with the way he is governing the kingdom, and they are not afraid to voice their dissent. However, Tughlaq is deaf to their protests, and he continues to rule with an iron fist.
The sixth symbol in the play is the cobra. The cobra represents danger and death. Tughlaq is constantly surrounded by danger, and he is always at risk of being assassinated.
We see this in the way his enemies plot against him, and in the way his own ministers betray him. The cobra is a reminder of the constant threat that Tughlaq faces.
The seventh symbol in the play is the puppet. The puppet represents Tughlaq’s ministers, who are often controlled by him.
We see this in the way Tughlaq manipulates his ministers to do his bidding. He is able to control them by offering them positions of power and by using his charisma to win them over.
The eighth symbol in the play is the mirror. The mirror represents truth and self-reflection.
Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq struggling to come to terms with his own identity. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
He is torn between his desire to be a just ruler and his ambition to expand his empire. The mirror is a reminder of the need for self-reflection and self-awareness.
The ninth symbol in the play is the fire. The fire represents destruction and chaos. We see this in the way Tughlaq’s policies lead to the destruction of the kingdom.
He is so focused on his own ambition that he fails to see the damage he is causing to the people and the land.
The final symbol in the play is the eagle. The eagle represents freedom and power. Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq trying to assert his power over his subjects.
However, the eagle is a reminder that true power comes from within, and that it cannot be imposed from without. In the end, Tughlaq’s quest for power leads to his downfall.
In addition to these symbols, the play also uses motifs to convey its themes. One of the key motifs in the play is the idea of justice.
Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq struggling to maintain a balance between justice and power. MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
He is torn between his desire to be a just ruler and his need to assert his authority. This motif is a reminder of the importance of justice in governance.
Another important motif in the play is the idea of identity. Throughout the play, we see Tughlaq struggling to come to terms with his own identity.
He is torn between his desire to be a great ruler and his doubts about his own legitimacy. This motif is a reminder of the importance of self-awareness and self-reflection.
The motif of religion is also prominent in the play. Tughlaq is a Muslim ruler, but he is not a religious fanatic.
However, his policies often alienate his Hindu subjects, and he is seen as a symbol of Muslim oppression. This motif is a reminder of the importance of religious tolerance in a diverse society.MEG 14 Solved Free Assignment 2023
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