Bildungsroman Explorations in Aravind Adiga’s Acclaimed Novels
Author : Sanjay Kumar
Abstract :
Aravind Adiga is a renowned contemporary Indian novelist who masterfully employs the bildungsroman as a literary device in his works. The bildungsroman, or coming-of-age story, is a genre that follows a protagonist as they navigate the challenges of learning and growth while transitioning from youth to adulthood. Adiga's debut novel, The White Tiger, is a prime example of this genre, as the protagonist Balram Halwai undergoes a remarkable transformation from being born into poverty to becoming a successful entrepreneur in Bangalore. Adiga's subsequent novels, Between the Assassinations and Last Man in Tower, also feature characters on journeys of self-discovery, grappling with social hierarchies, politics, and personal identity. Adiga's use of the bildungsroman is a testament to his skill as a storyteller and his critique of contemporary India. Through his works, he illuminates the struggles faced by individuals who come from complicated backgrounds in their attempts to achieve success in life. The present paper aims to explore and evaluate the traits of bildungsroman elements in selected works of Adiga. Amnesty and Selection Day are also notable examples of Adiga's focus on this genre. Adiga's use of the bildungsroman is a powerful tool that allows him to delve into the complexities of human growth and development. His works are a testament to his ability to tell compelling stories while also shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals in contemporary India.
Keywords :
Bildungsroman, aravind adiga, development, education
