Graduate Program

English

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Semester of Degree Completion

2008

Thesis Director

Unknown

Thesis Committee Member

Unknown

Thesis Committee Member

Unknown

Abstract

This study examines the female heroic journey in relation to the protagonists in three of Anita Desai's novels: Maya in Cry, the Peacock, Sita in Where Shall We Go This Summer, and Bim in Clear Light of Day. The elements of the heroic journey as described by Joseph Campbell in Hero with a Thousand Faces illuminate the journeys of Desai's characters, as certain of these elements appear in all three of the characters' journeys toward adulthood. The work of C. G. Jung is also central to this study, as his theories on psychological development are utilized to show the growth, or lack thereof, in each character. Even though the paradigms described by Campbell and Jung profess to be universal, there must be modification to the theories of both in order to encompass the whole of the female heroic journey and the psychological development of the female hero. Certain stages of the journey are different for the female hero, and certain stages are noticeably absent from her journey. Each character has been delayed in her journey toward adulthood, and the reasons for these delays are examined in detail. One such reason is the patriarchal structure that is in place in post-colonial India. This is a structure of gendered spaces, where the world is available to men, but women are relegated to the sphere of the home, with only the roles of wife and mother available to them. Another reason is the dysfunctional familial relationships in which each character is involved. This study concludes that in order for women in this society to reach adulthood and achieve independence, there must be change in both men and women within the society, but that, ultimately, the female hero must rely on her own resources to attain what Campbell refers to as "the ultimate boon."

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