Book Title: Multidisciplinary Research Nexus: Ideas for the Modern World
Chief Editors: Mr. Irshadullah Asim Mohammed, Dr. Yogesh Mohan Gosavi, and Prof. (Dr.) Vineeta Kaur Saluja
Associate Editor: Mrs. Sruthi S
Co-Editors: Dr. S. Rajeswari, Dr. Nikhil Saini, and Ms. Atreyee Banerjee
ISBN: 978-81-985805-1-1
Chapter: 2
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/mrnc2/321
Author: A. Gayathri
Abstract
Indian women writers in English have significantly contributed to literature by portraying the struggles and resilience of women in contemporary society. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, an acclaimed Indian-American author, presents a compelling narrative of cultural duality and female empowerment in Oleander Girl. This research paper examines the journey of Korobi Roy, a young woman raised in a conservative Bengali household, as she embarks on a transformative quest for identity and self-discovery. The novel intricately explores themes of cultural displacement, social class, gender expectations, and personal autonomy. Korobi’s evolution from a traditional, sheltered girl to an independent and courageous woman highlights the complex interplay between heritage and modernity. Through her transcontinental journey, Divakaruni underscores the challenges of cultural adaptation and the resilience required to navigate patriarchal and societal constraints. This study aims to analyze how Oleander Girl redefines female agency within the context of immigrant narratives and feminist discourse, illustrating Korobi’s empowerment as she embraces her own destiny.
References
- Agarwal, Beena. Women Writers and Indian Diaspora. New Delhi: Authors Press, 2011. Print.
- Agarwal, Madhavi Lata. “Narrative Techniques in Oleander Girl.” Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni: A Critical Spectrum. Ed. Manoj Kumar. Jaipur: Yking Books, 2017: 187-93. Print.
- Deol, Aditi Deo. “Where Dreams Come True: Studying Oleander Girl as a Fairy Tale.” Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni: A Critical Spectrum. Ed. Manoj Kumar. Jaipur: YKing Books, 2017: 218-26. Print.
- Divakaruni, Chitra Banerjee. Oleander Girl. 2013. London: Penguin, 2014. Print.