Paper Details

This paper examines gender representation in diaspora writing, with a focus on Pratima Mitchell’s Indian Summer. The study explores patriarchal oppression and gender dynamics within Indian society through a diasporic lens. Key themes include gender discrimination, child marriage, domestic violence, and the societal restrictions on women’s education and independence. The paper analyzes how diasporic narratives address the intersection of “old” and “new” Indian diasporas, particularly the portrayal of womanhood and girlhood, while reflecting on the multiple patriarchies shaped by class, caste, community, religion, and race. It also investigates the psychological impact of cultural displacement, isolation, and alienation, alongside contrasting masculinities tied to socio-economic contexts. Through its dual perspective on gender and identity, Indian Summer juxtaposes diasporic experiences with local realities. This research argues that Mitchell’s work enriches the discourse on gender by bridging traditional and modern perceptions of women’s roles, shedding light on the complexities of cultural belonging and displacement.

Diaspora, Young Adult Literature, Gender, Masculinities, Culture