ECHOES OF THE ORIENT: ORIENTALISM EXPLORED IN AMITAV GHOSH’S ‘THE CALCUTTA CHROMOSOME’ AND ‘THE GLASS PALACE’

Abstract

This study delves into the nuanced exploration of Orientalism in Amitav Ghosh’s novels, ‘The Calcutta Chromosome’ and ‘The Glass Palace.’ Drawing inspiration from Edward Said’s seminal work, the investigation critically examines how Ghosh navigates the multifaceted dimensions of Orientalist discourse within these narratives. The term ‘Orientalism’ serves as a key lens to uncover the intricate interplay between the East and the West, particularly how Western perspectives have historically shaped and defined the Orient. Ghosh’s literary prowess comes to the fore as he skillfully dismantles, interrogates, and recontextualizes Orientalist representations. In ‘The Calcutta Chromosome,’ Ghosh fuses science, spirituality, and history, complicating traditional boundaries between East and West. Through a labyrinthine narrative, he deftly challenges prevailing Western notions of knowledge and authority, prompting a reevaluation of their impact on the East. The juxtaposition of science and mysticism serves as a vehicle for transcending Orientalist stereotypes, inviting readers to ponder the intricate tapestry of cultural exchange. ‘The Glass Palace’ further expands the discourse as Ghosh weaves a panoramic saga traversing India and Southeast Asia. Against the backdrop of colonialism and migration, he defies Orientalist reductionism by portraying a diverse range of characters with rich inner lives and experiences. The novel’s canvas allows Ghosh to explore both the Orientalist gaze from the West and the self-reflection of characters caught in this gaze, thus fostering a multilayered understanding of identity, power dynamics, and cultural intersections. This study engages in a comparative analysis of the two novels, discerning recurring motifs, narrative techniques, and character dynamics that elucidate Ghosh’s deliberate engagement with Orientalism. The narratives serve as platforms to challenge Western hegemony, disrupt binary categorizations, and amplify the voices and agency of characters navigating an intricate web of cultural complexities. Through this exploration, this study endeavors to illuminate how Ghosh’s literary artistry not only dismantles Orientalist preconceptions but also enriches our comprehension of the East-West dialogue in contemporary postcolonial literature.