A LEAP FROM TRADITION TO MODERNITY; REFLECTED IN “DIFFICULT DAUGHTERS” OF MANJU KAPUR
Literature reflects and presents life in diverse ways, indicating the social status of the people. Feminism is one of the key topics of literature and it tackles a variety of issues concerning women in traditional society. Male chauvinism and inequality discriminated against them for centuries. The shift from Tradition to Modernity is a multidimensional and complex process that has shaped societies all over the world for ages. Manju Kapur's novels are heavily influenced by 'Tradition and Modernity’. ‘Difficult Daughters’ by Manju Kapur is a remarkable literary lens that examines the tremendous changes from tradition to modernity. Kapur's story expertly depicts the complexities of this cultural transformation, portraying the difficulties, sacrifices and successes that come with the transition from Tradition to Modernity. The story centers around Virmati, a young lady who defies societal norms and expectations in her pursuit of education, freedom and self-discovery. As the novel progresses, Virmati's life symbolizes the turbulent changes that occurred in Indian society throughout the mid-twentieth century. The present paper intends to explore how the characters make their leap from ‘Tradition to Modernity.’
Feminism, Modernity, Tradition, Women, Education and Society.