Globalization & Colonialism in Arundhati Roy`s "The God of small things"

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. (Market) economy

3. Culture (and economy)

4. (Modern) diaspora

5. Performance(s)

6. Anglophone ("Indiaphil?") – (post) colonial identities

7. Conclusion

8. Works cited

Objectives and Key Themes

This essay explores the deep, enduring connection between globalization and colonialism in India, specifically through the lens of Arundhati Roy's novel "The God of Small Things." It examines how historical colonial power structures continue to shape modern Indian society, economy, and identity, arguing that globalization functions as a contemporary manifestation of imperialist processes.

• The historical and ongoing economic impact of colonialism on India's agricultural and global market integration.
• The construction of "Indianness" and the role of the Indian Diaspora in perpetuating colonial-era prejudices.
• The commodification of Indian culture and identity within the global tourist industry as a form of neo-colonialism.
• The persistent influence of caste and British-imposed social hierarchies on identity construction and social justice.
• The role of Western literature and cultural symbols in maintaining colonial-era ideological influence post-independence.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Introduction: The introduction establishes the thesis that globalization and colonialism are inextricably linked processes that continue to shape Indian history and contemporary society.

2. (Market) economy: This chapter analyzes how the British East India Company laid the groundwork for modern economic exploitation, which continues to influence India's agricultural and trade policies today.

3. Culture (and economy): The chapter examines the transcultural flow between India and the West, highlighting how the novel itself operates within the global literary market while critiquing that very system.

4. (Modern) diaspora: This section discusses the Indian Diaspora as a global phenomenon, focusing on economic dependencies and the persistent racism encountered by Indians abroad.

5. Performance(s): This chapter critiques the commodification of Indian heritage, exploring how the tourism industry repackages colonial histories and exoticism for profit.

6. Anglophone ("Indiaphil?") – (post) colonial identities: The chapter explores the hybrid, often alienated identities of the Indian elite and the role of British cultural hegemony in education.

7. Conclusion: The conclusion synthesizes the arguments, identifying contemporary globalization as a form of neo-colonialism and reinforcing the novel's significance in articulating this transition.

8. Works cited: A comprehensive list of academic, literary, and online sources used throughout the essay.

Key Words

Globalization, Colonialism, Arundhati Roy, The God of Small Things, Indian Diaspora, Othering, Neo-colonialism, Caste System, Cultural Commodification, Hybridity, Imperialism, Post-colonial Identity, Westernization, Economic Exploitation, Indian Literature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central focus of this essay?

The essay explores the interconnectedness of globalization and colonialism in India, using Arundhati Roy's novel "The God of Small Things" to demonstrate how historical colonial structures persist in contemporary society.

What are the primary thematic fields addressed?

Key themes include the economics of colonialism, the construction of post-colonial identities, the role of the Indian Diaspora, the commodification of culture, and the influence of British social and educational ideals.

What is the primary research goal?

The essay aims to show that India's colonial history cannot be ignored and that modern globalization is effectively a "mutant variety" of colonialism that continues to exploit labor and resources.

What scientific method is employed?

The author employs a qualitative literary analysis, utilizing post-colonial theory and historical context to interpret characters, metaphors, and symbols within the novel.

What does the main body cover?

The body covers economic history, the concept of the "exotic other," the experiences of the Indian Diaspora, the performance of culture for tourism, and the influence of colonial education on the Indian elite.

Which keywords best describe this work?

Globalization, colonialism, Indian Diaspora, othering, neo-colonialism, caste system, and cultural commodification.

How does the author interpret the "History House" in the novel?

The author views the "History House" as a multi-layered metaphor representing both the lost Indian cultural heritage and an unattainable British ideal, underscoring the characters' state of in-betweenness.

What argument is made regarding the commodification of India?

The author argues that tourism in India—illustrated by the conversion of old colonial properties—is a form of neo-colonialism, where India is reduced to a "global product" to satisfy Western desires for the exotic.