The God of Small Things: A Marxist Analysis of Colonialism, Power, Race, and Gender

QUESTION

you may explore one of six questions. Be sure to use the literary theory Marxism to examine The God of Small Things book Essay Questions 1 What is the role of colonialism in this text? That is, while India is no longer under colonial rule, how is the presence of the old colonial power, Britain,still felt through the lives of these characters? 2 In what ways is The God of Small Things a political text, one that makes a statement about the nature of power in that society? 3 Explore how one or more characters’ “race” or “color” affect their lives. 4 To what extent does money and access to resources determine the characters’ quality of life? 5 Who is Velutha and what, if anything, does he symbolize in this complex text? 6 How does the gender of two characters in separate texts play a role in the challenges they face in the society depicted by two authors?

ANSWER

The God of Small Things: A Marxist Analysis of Colonialism, Power, Race, and Gender

Introduction

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy explores various socio-political themes, shedding light on the impact of colonialism, power dynamics, race, and gender in Indian society. Through a Marxist lens, this essay aims to analyze the novel, examining how these themes intertwine and shape the lives of the characters. By delving into the complexities of the narrative, we can gain insights into the enduring influence of colonialism, the nature of power, the role of race and color, the influence of wealth, and the challenges faced by characters based on their gender.

The Role of Colonialism

In The God of Small Things, although India is no longer under direct colonial rule, the presence of the old colonial power, Britain, is deeply felt. Colonialism has left lasting legacies that continue to affect the lives of the characters. The novel highlights the social hierarchy that persists, with remnants of British influence shaping class divisions and societal norms. The upper-class characters, such as the English-educated elites like Chacko, Ammu, and Baby Kochamma, display a sense of superiority and privilege derived from their association with the British colonial past. This echoes the lingering effects of colonialism on India’s social structure and the perpetuation of class distinctions.

 The Novel as a Political Text

The God of Small Things serves as a political text, offering a searing critique of power dynamics in Indian society. Through the lens of Marxism, the novel exposes the exploitative nature of power relationships. The characters are subjected to various forms of oppression, including economic exploitation, social discrimination, and gender inequality. The narrative unveils the ways in which the dominant elites use their power to maintain control and suppress the marginalized communities, perpetuating a system of inequality and injustice.

 The Impact of “Race” and “Color”

Race and color play significant roles in shaping the lives of the characters in The God of Small Things. The novel portrays the discrimination faced by characters like Velutha, an Untouchable, who is subjected to social ostracization and violence due to his lower caste status. His dark skin color exacerbates the prejudice he faces. The novel sheds light on the inherent racism deeply ingrained in Indian society, perpetuating the notion of superiority and inferiority based on race and caste.

The Influence of Money and Resources

The characters’ quality of life in The God of Small Things is profoundly influenced by money and access to resources. Wealth is a determining factor in their social status, opportunities, and overall well-being. The affluent characters, such as Chacko and Baby Kochamma, enjoy privileges and luxuries, while those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, like Ammu and Velutha, struggle to break free from poverty and societal constraints. The novel underscores the systemic inequalities created by economic disparities, further exacerbating social divisions.

The Symbolism of Velutha

Velutha, a central character in The God of Small Things, symbolizes the oppressed and marginalized sections of society. As an Untouchable, he represents the voiceless and powerless individuals who bear the brunt of societal discrimination. Velutha’s fate highlights the tragic consequences of challenging the established power structures. His character serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by the marginalized and the need for societal transformation.

Gender Challenges in Society

The gender of characters in separate texts, such as Ammu in The God of Small Things and characters in other works, plays a significant role in the challenges they face in their respective societies. Ammu, a divorced woman, faces societal judgment and condemnation due to her unconventional choices. Her gender becomes a barrier to her autonomy and happiness. Similarly, in other texts, female characters often confront gender-based discrimination, restricted opportunities, and patriarchal norms. These narratives expose the oppressive systems that perpetuate gender inequality.

Conclusion

In The God of Small Things, Arundhati Roy weaves a powerful narrative that delves into the complexities of post-colonial Indian society. Through a Marxist analysis, we can understand the far-reaching impact of colonialism, the dynamics of power, the consequences of race and color, the influence of wealth, and the challenges faced by characters based on their gender. The novel serves as a thought-provoking exploration of social and political issues, highlighting the urgent need for societal transformation and the pursuit of justice and equality.