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The Shadow of Desire: Homoeroticism and Identity in Marlowe's Edward II

  The Shadow of Desire: Homoeroticism and Identity in Marlowe's Edward II article by N.VIJAYAKUMAR M.A., M.Phil., Christopher Marlowe's Edward II stands as a powerful and complex exploration of kingship, power, and desire in the late Elizabethan era. While the play undeniably depicts the political machinations and turbulent reign of Edward II, it also offers a groundbreaking and nuanced portrayal of homoerotic desire and its profound impact on the king's identity, his relationships, and ultimately, his downfall. Far from simply labeling Edward as a "homosexual" in a modern sense, Marlowe delves into the complexities of same-sex attraction within a historical context that viewed such desires with suspicion and condemnation. The play navigates the treacherous terrain of forbidden love, exploring how it shapes Edward's sense of self, his political decisions, and his tragic fate. This essay will examine the multifaceted representation of homoeroticism in Edward I...

The Inner World Laid Bare: Psychological Realism in 20th Century Novels and Plays

  The Inner World Laid Bare: Psychological Realism in 20th Century Novels and Plays article by N.NIVETHA M.A., B.Ed., The 20th century, a period of unprecedented social upheaval, technological advancement, and philosophical questioning, witnessed a profound shift in artistic expression. Traditional notions of reality were challenged, and artists sought to delve deeper into the complexities of the human experience. This quest led to the rise of psychological realism, a literary and dramatic movement that prioritized the exploration of characters' inner lives, motivations, and subjective perceptions. Moving beyond surface appearances and external events, psychological realism aimed to portray the intricate workings of the human psyche, often focusing on the fragmented, contradictory, and often irrational nature of thought and emotion. This article will explore the key characteristics, influential figures, and lasting impact of psychological realism in 20th-century novels and plays. D...

The Portrayal of Women in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice: A Reflection of Societal Constraints and Female Agency

The Portrayal of Women in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice : A Reflection of Societal Constraints and Female Agency article by Dr.R.Arul kumaran M.A., Ph.D., Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice , set in the late 18th and early 19th century English countryside, offers a fascinating and nuanced portrayal of women within a society heavily structured by social class and gender expectations. While the novel ostensibly revolves around the themes of love, marriage, and social standing, it simultaneously provides a critical commentary on the limited opportunities and societal pressures faced by women of the era. Through a diverse cast of female characters, Austen explores the various ways women navigated their roles, challenged societal norms, and sought personal fulfillment within a patriarchal system. This essay will delve into the multifaceted portrayal of women in Pride and Prejudice , examining their struggles, aspirations, and the subtle yet significant ways in which they exercise...

The Evolution of the Anti-Hero in Modern American Literature

The Evolution of the Anti-Hero in Modern American Literature article by K.Akash M.A., M.Phil., The anti-hero, a protagonist who lacks conventional heroic attributes like idealism, courage, and morality, has become a defining figure in modern American literature. This figure's rise reflects a shift in societal values and a growing disillusionment with traditional notions of heroism. The anti-hero's journey through American literature mirrors the nation's own evolving identity, grappling with complex moral ambiguities and challenging established norms. Early Seeds of Dissent: The Romantic Anti-Hero While the anti-hero truly blossomed in the 20th century, its roots can be traced back to the Romantic era of the 19th century. Characters like Nathaniel Hawthorne's Hester Prynne in "The Scarlet Letter" (1850) challenged societal expectations and defied conventional morality. Though flawed, these characters possessed a certain nobility and elicited empathy, laying the...

The Power of Language in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'

  The Power of Language in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' article by Sriranjani Gnanasekaran M.A., B.Ed., Introduction Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird , published in 1960, stands as a seminal work in American literature, renowned for its poignant exploration of racial injustice, moral growth, and the complexities of human nature. Set in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the 1930s, the novel navigates these themes through the eyes of young Scout Finch. Central to Lee’s storytelling is the use of language—not merely as a tool for communication but as a powerful force that shapes characters, drives the narrative, and underscores the novel’s social commentary. This article delves into the multifaceted role of language in To Kill a Mockingbird , examining how it reflects societal norms, reveals character development, and serves as a vehicle for both prejudice and empathy. Language as a Reflection of Society In To Kill a Mockingbird , language serves as a mirror to the societal ...