What the study found
Contemporary Indian English novels increasingly portray women as active agents who resist patriarchal structures, rather than only as victims of them. The paper also says these novels reflect evolving feminist consciousness and show how caste, class, culture, and sexuality shape women's lives.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest this matters because the novels contribute to feminist discourse in literature by representing complex female characters who struggle for autonomy and self-identity. The findings indicate that these narratives highlight gender inequality, patriarchy, and social oppression in contemporary India.
What the researchers tested
The study uses qualitative textual analysis of selected contemporary Indian English novels. It examines how female characters negotiate patriarchal norms, cultural expectations, and social restrictions, and how women are represented in relation to resistance and identity.
What worked and what didn't
The paper reports that modern Indian English fiction moves beyond traditional depictions of women as passive figures. It finds representations of agency, empowerment, and resistance, while also showing that women's lives are shaped by intersecting social factors including caste, class, culture, and sexuality.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not name the specific novels analyzed, so the scope of the selection is not fully visible in the available summary. It also does not describe limitations in detail.
Key points
- The paper says contemporary Indian English novels increasingly present women as resistant and self-defining.
- It identifies feminism as a major theme in contemporary Indian English literature.
- The study uses qualitative textual analysis of selected novels.
- The findings describe agency, empowerment, and resistance alongside gender inequality and patriarchy.
- The abstract notes that caste, class, culture, and sexuality also shape women's lives in these narratives.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Indian English novels depict feminist agency and resistance
- Authors:
- Dr. Vandana Mishra
- Institutions:
- Shyam Shah Medical College
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-16
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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