V16N42024

The Defiant Faces: Intersectionality in Arundhati Roy’s Resistance Narratives

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14 views

Khum Prasad Sharma  
Lecturer in English, Padmakanya Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal. 

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.14
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Abstract

This study examines the multilayered concept of resistance in Arundhati Roy’s novels The God of Small Things (1997) and The Ministry of Utmost Happiness (2017). By foregrounding the voices of marginalized individuals, Roy critically examines systemic inequalities, caste discrimination, and state violence. While existing literary scholarship acknowledges the victimization and marginalization of subaltern women under traditional gender roles, caste systems, politics, and religion, this research highlights how these women actively resist such injustices. Utilizing theoretical frameworks from Guha, Spivak, Gramsci, and Crenshaw, the paper explores the intersectionality of personal and political resistance. It discusses Roy’s critique of power structures and her advocacy for justice and human dignity. Thus, the study unveils the layers of defiance in Roy’s unique portrayal of varied resistance strategies in her narratives.

Keywords: Resistance, violence, injustices, subaltern consciousness, political resistance, gender and identity.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 20 October 2024. Revised: 25 December 2024. Accepted: 28 December 2024. First published: 31 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Sharma, K. P. (2024). The Defiant Faces: Intersectionality in Arundhati Roy’s Resistance Narratives. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.14

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Exploring the Intersectionality of Cisgender Queer Women in Non-WEIRD Contexts

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26 views

Aditi Chawla1*  & Grace Maria Jochan2  
1,2 Research Department of Counselling and Psychology, St. Joseph’s University (Bangalore), India. *Corresponding author.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.13
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Abstract

The specific challenges faced by cisgender queer women navigating discrimination and marginalization, particularly in non-WEIRD contexts, are rarely addressed in academic literature. This study aims to understand the nuanced experiences of cisgender queer women residing in non-WEIRD contexts, with a particular focus on the intersections of identity, cultural influences, self-acceptance, prejudice, and social location. Drawing on theories like intersectionality, the research highlights the complex interplay between various dimensions of identity and how they shape lived realities. Using a sample of young adults aged 18 to 29 who identify as cisgender queer women, it thematically explores the influence of social and cultural backgrounds on participants’ experiences of sexuality. The findings shed light on the persistent prejudice and stereotyping these women face, rooted in both their sexual orientation and cultural context. By centering these intersections, the research emphasizes the importance of multidimensional approaches in social inquiry and advocacy, fostering greater inclusivity and support for cisgender queer women in non-WEIRD contexts.

Keywords: Intersectionality, cisgender queer women, non-WEIRD contexts, cultural identity, self acceptance, prejudice, stereotyping, thematic analysis.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History:Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 20 December 2024. Accepted: 25 December 2024. First published: 29 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Chawla, A. & Jochan, G. M. (2024). Exploring the Intersectionality of Cisgender Queer Women in Non-WEIRD Contexts. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.13

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Cancer Survival as a Social Practice: A Study of Selective Indian Women Cancer Narratives

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19 views

Julie Dominic A  
1 Assistant Professor, Department of English, Little Flower College, Guruvayoor, University of Calicut, India.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.12
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Abstract

Researching the survival trajectories of cancer survivors, through their narratives, is indeed crucial for understanding the multifaceted dimensions of their experiences. Within the Indian subcontinent, where cultural, societal, and healthcare dynamics differ widely, studying cancer narratives of female survivors offer a unique perspective. Women often face specific challenges related to gender roles, stigma, access to healthcare, and support systems. Understanding how female cancer survivors navigate through these challenges and develop strategies for survival can benefit both healthcare practices and social support structures. The four primary texts taken for analysis come under the genre of illness narratives: Anita Moorjani’s Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing (2012), Neelam Kumar’s To Cancer with Love: My Journey of Life (2015), Manisha Koirala’s (with Neelam Kumar) Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life (2018) and Lisa Ray’s Close to the Bone (2019) are analytically reviewed for the study. Theoretical perspectives from the survivorship theory of Alex Broom and Katherine Kenny have created a framework to analyse the survival trajectory in this research. Exploring how women perceive and cope with the news of their cancer diagnosis, including their emotional responses, fears, and uncertainties makes cancer survival a social practice rather than an individual struggle. The study also identifies the strategies and resources women utilise such as spirituality, peer support, information-seeking, or maintaining a positive outlook. It examines the long-term effects of cancer survivorship, like recurrence, survivorship care, body image, relationships, and existential concerns. By delving into these themes, the research understands the experiences of female cancer survivors to reduce stigma and inspire hope for others facing similar challenges.

Keywords: Medical Humanities, Illness Narratives, Cancer Narratives, Survival, Health Consciousness.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 20 December 2024. Accepted: 25 December 2024. First published: 28 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Dominic, J. A. (2024). Cancer Survival as a Social Practice: A Study of Selective Indian Women Cancer Narratives. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.12

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Visual Narratives in Music: Exploring Leonard Cohen’s Album Art

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98 views

Pragati Das1*  & Mita Bandyopadhyay2  
1 Research Scholar, Techno India University, West Bengal & Faculty, PG Dept of English, Bhatter College, Dantan. *Corresponding author.
2 Assistant Professor, Techno India University, West Bengal.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.11
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Abstract

Visual art plays a crucial role in the music industry; it is not merely a marketing tool but also a fundamental part of the narrative and emotional impact of music. This is especially true for Leonard Cohen, who practiced visual art himself and had an acute sense of the visual elements of his album covers. This article examines the interrelationship between the visual elements of Cohen’s album covers and the music within. By analyzing five representative albums spanning nearly 50 years—Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967), New Skin for the Old Ceremony (1974), I’m Your Man (1988), Ten New Songs (2001), and You Want It Darker (2016)—this study demonstrates how Cohen meticulously crafted the album covers as intellectual extensions of his poetic vision. Through archival research and visual and textual analysis, this paper explores both the general cultural and technological contexts that influenced the visual aesthetics of the albums, and the personal intellectual contexts responsible for variations in design. Thus, the study presents a comprehensive analysis of the visual aesthetics of Cohen’s albums that began amidst the cultural upheaval of the 1960s and concluded in the second decade of the present century, a period during which the production, distribution, and consumption of music underwent a complete transformation.

Keywords: Leonard Cohen, album covers, visual study, music.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History:Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 20 December 2024. Accepted: 22 December 2024. First published: 26 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Das, P. & Bandyopadhyay, M. (2024). Visual Narratives in Music: Exploring Leonard Cohen’s Album Art. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.11

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Mapping Urban Transformation in Himachal Pradesh: A Geospatial Exploration of Tourism-Driven Development

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Swamy Naidu1*  & Aniket Alam2  
1,2Human Sciences Research Center, International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad. *Corresponding author.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.10
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Abstract

Celebrated for its stunning landscapes, Himachal Pradesh has become a renowned tourist destination, experiencing a surge in visitors. Since the 1980s, the state has witnessed significant economic growth, supported by a boom in the tourism industry. This research aims to correlate tourism with economic growth and analyse the unique tourism-driven development of Himachal Pradesh. We used urban built-up areas in key tourist hotspots as a proxy, and employed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and visual interpretation techniques to examine urban growth around Solang Valley, Bhagsunag Temple, Chail, Kufri, and Khajjiar from 1990 to 2020. Historical Landsat satellite imagery was utilised to quantify urban built-up changes. The findings revealed a significant increase in built-up areas within all tourist buffer zones, with Bhagsunag Temple showing the most dramatic growth (~1000%). Non-tourist locations with similar demographics showed an average increase of 55%, compared to 427% in tourist buffers. This study demonstrates that built-up areas have expanded more rapidly in tourist areas, highlighting the substantial impact of tourism on urban growth. These findings suggest the need for further exploration into tourism, policy studies, and economics in Himachal Pradesh.

Keywords: GIS, Tourism, Urbanisation, Remote Sensing, Landsat, Himachal Pradesh.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 15 December 2024. Accepted: 18 December 2024. First published: 24 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Naidu, S. & Alam, A. (2024). Mapping Urban Transformation in Himachal Pradesh: A Geospatial Exploration of Tourism-Driven Development. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.10

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

AI-Driven Language Learning: The Impact of Rosetta Stone on ESL Students’ Speaking Proficiency and Self-Control

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99 views

Ganesh Dandu1*  & Gomatam Mohana Charyulu2 & KSNVL Lavanya Kumari3  
1Associate Professor, Dept. of BS&H, Vignan’s Institute of Information Technology, Duvvada, Visakhapatnam, AP, India. *Corresponding author. 
2Professor of English, English Division, Dept of S & H, VFSTR Deemed to be University, Vadlamudi, AP, India.
3Research Scholar, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.09
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Abstract

This research paper investigates the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based instructions on improving English language speaking abilities and fostering self-learning in real-life environments. In today’s educational landscape, AI-based applications have proven to be transformative tools, igniting learners’ passion and supporting interactive language learning activities. The study was conducted with 120 engineering students learning English as a Second Language (ESL), who were randomly assigned to either an experimental group receiving AI-based instructions or a control group receiving traditional instructions. Pre- and post-tests were administered to evaluate the students’ English-speaking abilities and self-learning skills, utilizing the Rosetta Stone mobile application, which incorporates various speaking activities, focused exercises, pronunciation feedback, and a speech recognition tool. The results indicated that the experimental group showed significant improvements in speaking skill components—accuracy, vocabulary, fluency, and pronunciation—compared to the control group. The findings suggest that AI-based instruction effectively enhances English language speaking skills among ESL students and improves their self-regulatory processes. These results demonstrate the potential of AI technology to enhance language acquisition experiences and promote learners’ self-reliance and cognitive processes in speaking.

Keywords: EFL context, AI-based instructions, Rosetta Stone application, Speaking skills, Self-regularity practices.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 13 December 2024. Accepted: 18 December 2024. First published: 25 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Dandu, G. & Charyulu, G. M. & KSNVL, L. K. (2024). AI-Driven Language Learning: The Impact of Rosetta Stone on ESL Students’ Speaking Proficiency and Self-Control. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.09

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Reproduction, Society and Modern Medicine: Unveiling the Intricacies of the Fertility Industry in India through the Movie Good Newwz (2019)

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87 views

Anubhuti Walia1  & Preeti Puri2  
1Research Scholar, Department of Humanities and Management, Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology Jalandhar, Jalandhar, Punjab, India.
2Assistant Professor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.08
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Abstract

The article aims to discuss the intricacies of the fertility industry in India through Raj Mehta’s directorial debut, Good Newws (2019). The movie serves as a social commentary by building upon the tragic switching of sperms between two infertile couples who decide to undergo In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. The film thereby reveals how healthcare corporations capitalise on socio-cultural politics of reproduction to commodify and market infertility solutions, which is then followed by a consistent disregard for patient-centred care. Within this context, the paper examines three components of the fertility industry operating in India. It commences by employing a feminist and sociological perspective to expose the ways in which societal and cultural obligations to have a child motivate infertile couples to seek treatment at IVF clinics. The second section uses Barthe’s concept of signification to delineate the marketing strategies that fertility clinics employ to attract desperate couples into availing their services. Finally, through the lens of the care ethics theory, the third section then explores the commercially motivated doctor-patient relationship in the fertility industry, which is characterised by a consistent violation of care ethics. Consequently, the study concludes by positioning Good Newwz (2019) within the continuum of infertility-themed Bollywood films, bringing fresh subjects of IVF technology and marketing to the forefront of conversations to raise critical awareness about the exploitative practices prevalent in the Indian healthcare system.

Keywords: reproduction, commercialisation, technology, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), ethics of care.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 19 December 2024. Accepted: 20 December 2024. First published: 23 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation:Walia, A. & Puri, P. (2024). Reproduction, Society and Modern Medicine: Unveiling the Intricacies of the Fertility Industry in India through the Movie Good Newwz (2019). Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.08

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Unveiling Transgender Narratives: A Critical Analysis of Their Representation in Malayalam Cinema

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96 views

Mohamed Rashid VP1  & Sourav V2 & Bangalore Morarji2  
1PhD Scholar, CSSEIP, School of Social Sciences, University of Hyderabad.
2PhD scholar in History, Department of Social Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology
3Associate Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology. *Corresponding author.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.07
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Abstract

For over a century, cinema has been an influential medium through which stories are told, and culture is expressed. Stories come to life through filmmaking and exploring various themes, experiences and perspectives. Film’s visual and narrative elements can shape public opinion, subvert social conventions, provoke thinking and significantly impact the culture and social discourse. This study examines the representation of transgender individuals in Malayalam cinema, analysing the evolving narrative landscape and its societal impact. Regardless of a rich cinematic history dating back to the 1930s, Malayalam films have only recently begun to include transgender themes with depth and sensitivity. The study scrutinises early depictions that often resorted to stereotypes and comedic mockery, contrasting them with contemporary portrayals that uphold understanding and acceptance. By dissecting specific films, this work reveals the changing tides in cultural perception and points out the importance of responsible storytelling in media. This study calls for a continued push towards authentic and respectful representation, emphasising the transformative potential of cinema in shaping public attitudes towards the transgender community. This study used historical, content, and discourse analysis as methodology and representation theory as the theoretical framework to examine the portrayal of transgender in Malayalam cinema. 

Keywords: Film Making, Malayalam Cinema, Social Impact, Stereotypes, Transgender Representation.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 19 December 2024. Accepted: 18 December 2024. First published: 23 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: VP, M. R. & V, S. & Morarji, B. (2024). Unveiling Transgender Narratives: A Critical Analysis of Their Representation in Malayalam Cinema. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.07

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Exploring the Alt News Phenomenon: A Case Study of One of India’s Most Prominent Fact-Checking Campaigns

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143 views

Rositta Joseph Valiyamattam  
Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, U.K.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.06
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Abstract

The AI-powered digital revolution of the 21st-century world has greatly exacerbated the problem of fake news, which has been a menace to humankind since ancient times. Misinformation and disinformation have infiltrated every sphere of contemporary human life, causing immense damage in the social, political and economic arenas. In this context, various humanities and social sciences disciplines have taken up the challenge of combating fake news. Numerous studies have found that instead of mere damage control, preventive education against fake news proves to be much more effective (for instance, Nolan Higdon’s The Anatomy of Fake News: A Critical News Literacy Education, 2020). This paper presents an analytical case study of Alt News, one of India’s most prominent fact-checking and anti-fake news campaigns. Its co-founders were nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize for their courageous journalism in the face of tremendous political pressure. Interestingly, Alt News has initiated a media and digital literacy campaign by harnessing various humanities and social sciences disciplines, starting with curricular interventions in schools and colleges. While performing a SWOT analysis of Alt News, this paper seeks to highlight interdisciplinary humanities and social science educational initiatives that can help control and potentially end the fake news phenomenon.

Keywords: fake news, fact-checking, media/digital literacy, Alt News, combating fake news in India, critical humanities and social science education.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 13 December 2024. Accepted: 18 December 2024. First published: 25 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Valiyamattam, R. J. (2024). Exploring the Alt News Phenomenon: A Case Study of One of India’s Most Prominent Fact-Checking Campaigns. Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.06.

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

Beyond the Limits of Constructed Identity: Teeth as Deleuzoguattarian Partial Objects in Edgar Allan Poe’s “Berenice”

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71 views

Shefali1  & Preeti Puri2  
1Research Scholar, Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology Jalandhar, Punjab, India.
2Assistant Professor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.05
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Abstract

Critics who attempt to linearize the behavior of Edgar Allan Poe’s narrator, Egaeus, in “Berenice,” limit the potential for his self-expression by focusing solely on his relationship with his cousin’s teeth. This article explores the complex dynamics between the narrator and various objects within the narrative, using the Deleuzoguattarian concept of partial objects. It argues that the narrator’s fixation on Berenice’s teeth is not driven by a monomaniacal obsession or a fetish for a single object. Instead, it represents his effort to disrupt the logocentric structures that limit his bodily potential. The study investigates the factors that seek to appropriate the narrator’s body, showcasing his struggle between an imposed monomaniacal identity and an unrelenting desire to explore the world. Additionally, it examines how teeth, as nomadic partial objects, deconstruct the perception of an organism as a cohesive entity and help the narrator contest his monomaniacal identity.

Keywords: “Berenice,” monomania, teeth, partial objects.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Funding: No funding was received for this research.
Article History: Received: 18 October 2024. Revised: 18 December 2024. Accepted: 20 December 2024. First published: 25 December 2024.
Copyright: © 2024 by the author/s.
License: License Aesthetix Media Services, India. Distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Published by: Aesthetix Media Services, India 
Citation: Shefali & Puri, P. (2024). Beyond the Limits of Constructed Identity: Teeth as Deleuzoguattarian Partial Objects in Edgar Allan Poe’s “Berenice.” Rupkatha Journal 16:4. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n4.05

Rupkatha Journal's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality education (SDG 4) Gender equality (SDG 5) Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) Reduced inequalities (SDG 10) Sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) Climate action (SDG 13) Life on land (SDG 15) Peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)