Abstract The paper is an examination of the meaning of sexuality, the mystery that surrounds it in behavioral situations and the type of people involved, as ascribed to the characters in E.M. Forster's book, "A Passage to India". The tender subject of inter race relations with respect to sexuality is also clearly demonstrated in this review.
From the Paper "Aziz also manages to develop a casual platonic friendship with one of the main female characters, Adela, because he finds her not only sexually unattractive but even plain and ugly. A telling scene is one between Aziz and protagonist Fielding, who discuss whether they are attracted to Adela. Aziz rejects her soundly based on her physical plainness, whereas Fielding dislikes her priggish intellectual interest in India. (Aziz is sexually motivated; Fielding is not.) Aziz moreover feels he can talk to Adela as a man - not a common attitude of men towards women at the turn of the last century, but one Aziz employs because of his tendency to equate femininity with sexuality and beauty. However, Aziz is not socially insensible, and he realizes that a proposed visit to Marabar Caves with Adela would be problematic, he being widowed and she being engaged. This attention to social mores indicates how sexually frigid people were in the early 1900s, regardless of race. A man and a woman who are not married should not be seen walking together in public; social mores are so strong on this matter that even Aziz, who can barely see Adela as a sexual object, realizes this. "
Abstract Forster's "A Passage to India" and Kipling's "Kim" have often been viewed as literary works that are in opposition to each other, since the former has been construed as a critique of British imperialism in India, whereas the latter has been seen as pro-imperialism. Indeed, this scholarly opinion seems to dominate critical analysis of British colonial literature on India, leading to a wide body of work that highlights the striking contrast between Forster's and Kipling's portrayal of the British Raj in India. One outcome of this scholarly tradition is that very little attempt has been made to analyze the similarities, if any, between the two works. As a result, there is one very marked commonality between the two works that has tended to be overlooked, which is the theme of social identity. Therefore, this paper highlights and discusses the fact that both "A Passage to India" and "Kim" serve as a commentary on the importance of the role played by social and cultural identity in creating and perpetuating the divide between nations and races.
From the Paper "Kipling, in fact, achieves his purpose through positing the premise that the only way to bridge the divide between nations and races is through the intermingling of social and cultural values. Whereas, as evidenced by the earlier discussion, Forster's approach was to highlight the social and cultural differences that prevented the formation of friendships between the British and the Indians. Of course, several critics have interpreted Kipling's Kim as a novel that demonstrates the importance of knowing India and its customs in order to rule it (Hubel, p. 87), thereby further supporting the view of Kipling as a pro-imperialism author. The fact, however, remains that there is enough scope to equally interpret Kim as a story that shows the path to becoming a ?friend of all the world.?"
Abstract In this comparative study of E.M. Forster's "Passage to India" and Tayeb Salih's "Season of Migration to the North" the author looks at the similarities in both books that give unmediated experience as a partial solution to the political conflicts of the colonial and post-colonial eras. He looks at how both books present experiences freed from the constraints of place, time, circumstance and individual motivation. He sees this by placing their characters (briefly) outside of representation, through mystical transcendence. The author then proceeds in detail to examine the messages he believes both books are trying to give and relates each of these messages to the characters and locations of the book. For example, in "Passage to India" he spends some time looking at the towns mentioned and the Hindu religion practiced and how it affects the community and characters in the book. The author examines every chapter of each book and uses other texts to explain and justify his belief that there is transcendence and empathy in both books.
From the Paper "The refusal here to allow the imagination to go beyond its usual restraints is an important British problem in the novel. While dissatisfied with the quotidian structures of belief and reason they have practised throughout their lives, they are still limited by them in their attempt to go beyond them. There is a great fear of the unknown, and the infinite - which is in principle unknowable - is the most fearful thing of all to minds that need strict systems upon which to base their processes of meaning generation. The English rely on their reason and familiar systems of thought to make sense of the world. Their problem, I posit, is one of scope, as Hans Gadamer states in Truth and Method: "A person who has no horizon does not see far enough and hence overvalues what is nearest him" (302). When posed with notions that precede and transcend their own systems, the English are left reeling, and retreat when possible to the safety of their own worlds."
Abstract This paper discusses Walt Whitman's "Passage to India." It particularly considers his references to technology and the soul. The paper suggests that "Passage to India" seems to be calling out to the common man, encouraging him to embrace the modern world, but to remember the capabilities of the poetic soul. The paper discusses how Whitman presents these themes.
From the Paper "Ultimately, Whitman clearly states that the soul will not suffer from man's intellectual restlessness. Instead it will soar to new heights on the rising tide of technology, and use these advances to reach even further than it ever has before. But even so, the reach of poetry and the soul is far beyond anything that man can make or design since it has the capability to reach into the ancient past as well as into the future. Even if time machines were finally invented, they would still not compare to the ability of the soul to understand its own existence, and to make connections with the past and with other souls. The poet's ability to connect with God and to explore all the recesses of man's existence is where the soul's true potential lay, not with the advance of machinery and technology. Though Whitman does accept and appreciate technology "I welcome, and fully, the same as the rest;/ You too with joy I sing" (28-29), he feels that the soul is the real past, present, and future of mankind."
Abstract "A Passage to India"by E.M. Forster and the movie based on it, written and directed by David Lean, share themes and plot elements, but are vastly different. This paper explains that the sixty years between the two show a different emphasis on the colonial experience of the British in India and the relationships of the peoples from both societies. Forster was concerned with the political realities of the colonial Raj in India, and Lean was more interested in the personal relationships of the characters only.
From the Paper "Lean's version did make fun of the stuffy, arrogant English colonialists, but he softened Forster's political and psychological criticism, thereby throwing away almost all of the novel's philosophical complexity (Crowdus). Indeed, Lean's movie version was primarily spectacle. Shot on location, it was more concerned with pomp and the trappings of the immorality of colonialism and imperial pretensions than it did with the underlying political and human dilemmas (Young). He changed the focus from a political story to one of personalities."
Abstract This paper explains that situations of racial and ethnic strife occurred long before the British colonization of India; however, the British presence created a worsened landscape. The paper relates that this stark realization of racism is played out in E. M. Forster's novel "Passage to India", especially within the symbolism of the Marabar Caves, which is the orient to the usurpers. The author points out that the trial of protagonist Aziz is an example of how such mystery feeds the minds of a fearful population, both native and white.
From the Paper "The foundations of the strife between the characters and the community in stark realization, during the only time in the novel when the "truth" is allowed to be heard is still evident, as many probably walked away from the incident and the trial with a clear sense of the mystery that surrounds the caves. No one is allowed to discover the whole truth, as to whom if anyone really attacked the white woman, or if it was simply the fear of the surroundings that rebuffed the young girl."
Abstract This paper examines how the physical, social, and chronological settings of E.M. Forster's "A Passage To India" are vitally important to the structure and tone of this story. It looks at how the themes are artfully constructed through setting in early 20th-century India, where conflict inevitably arises between the Indian natives and the colonization-hungry British. Some background to each of the novel's three parts is given, and crucial settings are illustrated, along with their relevance to the central themes of this novel, namely, whether the imprisoned can be friends with their captors.
From the Paper "The novel is sectioned into three parts, each centering around a particular setting or location. The Mosque takes place in the city of Chandrapore, which was occupied by both the British and the native Indians; The Caves centers around the Marabar Caves, the site of Adela's supposed rape; and The Temple is set among the Hindu peoples during a religious festival, emphasizing again the contrast between these cultures. The sections of this novel can also be said to represent the three main seasons of India: respectively cold, hot, and rainy. The vast differences between each of these sections only emphasize the contrast of the seasons and the highlighted locations, once again underlining the importance of setting to this novel."
Abstract This paper studies the E.M. Forester novel "A Passage to India," paying particular attention to the rich Orientalism in the work. The paper begins with a detailed plot synopsis, and then examines the novel's various conflicts -- such as the tension between Indians and Anglos. The main themes the paper examines are the fear of differences and the search for happiness, peace and love. The paper relates frequently to the text, using quoted passages to underscore its points.
From the Paper "Living in a state of oppression - being considered the subordinate race - has an effect on Aziz' interactions with everyone. He laces his words with sarcasm, chooses them carefully and immediately analyzes them. But the curious part is that the British characters like Miss Quested, Mrs. Moore, Cyril Fielding and others, do the same thing - desiring to treat Indians fairly one minute, then revealing (through thoughts, words or deeds) their elitism and condescension the next.
As for Miss Quested, she accepted everything Aziz said as true verbally. In her ignorance, she regarded him as "India," and never surmised that his outlook was limited and his method inaccurate, and that no one is India."
Abstract This paper takes a look at E.M. Foster's book, "A Passage to India". According to the paper, the British occupation of India was the showcase of modern imperialism and the conflicts that result when two such cultures clash. The paper further discusses how this book provides the reader with a holistic picture of how Muslims and Indians lived under British rule.
From the Paper "The loyalist mentality was especially strong in the historical context of British rule among Muslims and Indians. Throughout the early 20th century, the Indian empire was primarily ruled by a small class of British citizens and the majority was Indian governors. However, these Indian magistrates went through the British school system, many of them raised in primarily British areas or in England itself. As a result, the subjugation of the population occurred not through the dichotomy of British vs. Indians, but an internal struggle. In analyzing the British strategy for colonialism, this is one of the principle devices used to stave off revolution and rebellion. Precisely because the front of governance rests within the native population, internal conflict rather than external conflict is the focus within India in the early 20th century. The conflict between loyalists and revolutionists ensured that the country as a whole was split as to which path to pursue. The inevitable result is inaction. "
Tags: loyalists, revolutionaries, foreign, terrorism, hatred, Aziz
Abstract This paper shall explore the novel "A Passage to India" by E.M. Forester. An emphasis shall be given to the significance of the Marabar Caves and the inability of British people to comprehend the significance of Indian thought.
This paper addresses the conflict between the Hindus and the Muslims in two parts: The first part examines E. M. Forster's "A Passage to India" in terms of its historical accuracy towards its treatment of the differences that persisted between the Hindus
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 4 sources, 2002, $ 89.95
Abstract This paper addresses the conflict between the Hindus and the Muslims in two parts: The first part examines E. M. Forster's "A Passage to India" in terms of its historical accuracy towards its treatment of the differences that persisted between the Hindus and the Muslims. The second part of this paper addresses current cultural issues that persist in modern- day India. This paper demonstrates that the cultural differences that exist between these two people are deeply rooted in their society and are therefore impossible to ignore. 10 pgs, bibliography lists 4 sources.
Tags: ASIAN STUDIES / INDIA, longstanding cultural differences
Abstract This paper explores the history of marriage in India, where it is viewed as a sacrament and the greatest bond between a man and a woman and between their families. The author discusses arranged marriages and the role of sexual intimacy in marriage. The paper further highlights the different outlooks on marriage between Northern India and Southern India. Also considered is the impact of other cultures in India, including Islamic and Western Culture. The author concludes that despite these cultural influences, marriage remains a sacrament in India.
From the Paper "The greatest event in a family in India is a wedding, which celebrates and evokes every possible social obligation, kinship bond, traditional value, sentiment and economic resource (Encyclopedia of Nations 1995). It is considered essential by virtually everyone in the country. The individual sees it as the setting for one's transition to adulthood, which is the result of a combination of choices by everyone in the group or family. Everyone is born in a family and the choice of a family is beyond individual choice, which is why arranging a marriage is a critical responsibility of parents and other relatives on both sides. Some Indian parents make this arrangement at the birth of a child while some wait until later. Child marriage was practiced by small ancient groups, especially the Rajasthan, for their children under the age of five (Encyclopedia of Nations, Stormloader). Hindu scriptures sanctioned the practice and its early consummation and emphasized that a girl should be married before puberty or before her first menstruation. If not, she would go to hell because it would constitute abortion. Their Prophet Islam taught that marrying young girls from 2 to 8 would be ideal. Indians also fixed the age of the groom at ideally three times that of the child bride..."
Abstract This paper traces the historic relationship between the United States and India, from its fragile beginnings to the current strengthening of ties. Several issues are addressed that have contributed to the relationship between the two nations. These include the Cold War, economic cooperation between the US and India, and India's security issues. The author believes that India and the United States are still in the early stages of what will hopefully be a strong and prosperous friendship. The writer concludes that decades of mistrust and friction must be resolved if relations are to fully flourish.
Outline
A History of Wariness
Economic Cooperation Between the US and India Security Issues
Conclusion
From the Paper "The United States was frustrated by its inability to win influence in this strategic nation that serves as a jumping point to Asia and the Middle East. Even after the Cold War, the United States' relationship with India remained rocky over issues such as nuclear proliferation, India's conflict with Pakistan, and high trade tariffs. However, a new era seems to be dawning in U.S-Indian relations. Both sides have begun to look past historically divisive issues and to focus on natural synergies between the nations, particularly in the area of economic cooperation. Despite growing economic ties between the nations and increased understanding over India's nuclear status, significant issues still remain in the development of a solid partnership between India and the United States."
Tags:India, United, States, international, relations
Explains India's economic performance by taking an in depth look at the economic, political and social change that has taken place within India during the postwar years.
2,900 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 5 sources, 2002, $ 106.95
Abstract This comprehensive study is aimed at the major economic, political, cultural and social changes and crises that have taken place within India during the period in question and it will attempt to assess the extent to which these factors have shaped the country's economic performance. Included in this analysis will be an assessment of economic development and social change, the economic and political aspects of agricultural change, as well as political change, political structure and the functioning of government. Attention will also be directed towards the caste conflict and language differences as well as the extent to which they have had an impact on the level of economic development that India has been able to achieve and the nature of this development. The main hypothesis that will be tested in this study will be the following: while India has achieved relatively significant economic advances during recent years, especially in light of the country's status as a Third World nation, these advances have been limited.
Abstract This paper compares economic and population data on India and Pakistan, noting that India is a moderate-sized country with a huge population. The writer states that over-population is one of the problems facing India, and that data on this subject can be found easily using an Internet search engine. The writer notes that one site that offers a good deal of data is known as Data & Statistics, a site offering data gathered by the World Bank on different countries, and with a specific section on Development Goals for India.
From the Paper "India is a moderate-sized country with a huge population. Over-population is one of the problems facing India, and data on this subject can be found easily using an Internet search engine. One site that offers a good deal of data is known as Data & Statistics, a site offering data gathered by the World Bank on different countries, and with a specific section on Development Goals for India. The most current data on the site is for 2004. According to this site, the population of India reached 1.1 billion in 2003 and remained at that level in 2004, up from 1 billion in 2000. The growth rate has been slowing slightly, down to 1.4 percent in 2004 from 1.7 percent in 2000. For 2000, the last year with full data, the national poverty rate stood at 28.6 percent of the population."
