The Home and the World
Rabindranath Tagore
Belletristik / Gemischte Anthologien
Beschreibung
"The Home and the World" (Ghare-Baire in Bengali) is a novel written by the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, first published in 1916. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Bengal during the Swadeshi movement, the novel explores themes of nationalism, love, identity, and personal freedom.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of three main characters: Nikhil, Bimala, and Sandip. Nikhil is a wealthy and liberal-minded landowner who believes in the importance of individual freedom and mutual respect within relationships. His wife, Bimala, initially embraces traditional roles and values but becomes increasingly drawn to the charismatic nationalist leader, Sandip.
Sandip is a fiery and charismatic revolutionary who advocates for Indian independence through radical means. He exerts a powerful influence over Bimala, drawing her into the political sphere and awakening her sense of national pride. As Bimala becomes more involved with Sandip and his cause, tensions arise within her marriage to Nikhil, leading to a complex and ultimately tragic series of events.
"The Home and the World" is celebrated for its nuanced exploration of the intersections between personal and political spheres, as well as its complex characterizations and lyrical prose. Tagore's novel delves into the complexities of human nature and the conflicting desires for love, freedom, and identity.
The novel remains a seminal work in Indian literature and has been translated into numerous languages. It continues to be studied and admired for its timeless themes and its relevance to contemporary discussions of nationalism, gender, and cultural identity.
