Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Symbols/The Title of ‘A house for Mr. Biswas”

(1) Symbols/The Title:-
The technique of symbolism:-
          May modern writes follow the technique of symbolism today. They use objects, places, atmosphere and actions as symbols to convey the hidden meaning. It is a highly subtle and sophisticated technique. It is an indirect of suggestive method of communication. Naipaul has successfully used various symbols of convey and additional or deeper meaning to the reader.

‘Hanuman House as a symbol’
          Here ‘Hanuman House’ is not only Mrs. Tulsi’s residence, According to Biswas; it seems to be a zoo with many monkeys in it. He calls it ‘a monkey-house’. Secondly it is a symbol of traditionalism, rigidity and cultural perfection. Hanuman House celebrated Chrisman too.  This shows the influence of a foreign culture on the old Hindu customs.

symbolic significance of the barracks and the houses
          There is also symbolic significance of the barracks and the houses build by Biswas. Barracks are symbols of confinement of life where Biswas is as uncomfortable as he is the Tulsi houses. He does not like such confinement. So he sometimes goes to Green Vale or to Chase even for temporary relief. Finally, he decides to build his own house where he can live in peace and prosperity. This house of Mr. Biswas is a symbol of his individual personality which he wants to assert at any cost. The construction of this house suggests the development of Biswas as a free, fearless and favourless man.

symbolic significance of the Doll’s house and Mr. Biswas’s Longing to own a house:-
          The Doll’s House presentation to Savi by Biswas is also symbolical. This symbolizes Biswas’s aspiration to have a house of his own. Then he asks Mr. Seth for a piece of land at Green Vale to build a house. He starts the construction work, but the house remains incomplete on account of lack of und. Mr. Biswas’s longing for a house is also symbolical. Naipaul conveys that there many people like Mr. Biswas who want to build their own houses, but they remain incomplete. The incomplete house is the symbol of the incompleteness of their lives, their isolation, their fears and futility. Though Biswas’s ambition to have a house of his own is fulfilled, but it gives him no joy. He has not given up his individuality inspite of having economic pressure on his purse and pulse. He dies a death with a large amount borrowed but unpaid. The assertion of his individuality has cost him dearly, though he dies as a free man with respect and honour received at the end.

          The owner ship of a house at Shorthill is symbol of his freedom, individuality and revolt against certain norms of his society. At he ahs made himself completely from the Chains of the Tulsi family.


symbolic significance of the title:-
          The title of the novel is significant. Mr. Biswas wants to have a house his own to assert and preserve his independence. He is able to won a house at the end though he does not live long to enjoy its pleasures. He dies a free man, with his self-respect and individuality unbroken. His rebellion against the Tulsi family has proved successful, and he has achieved freedom. The main theme of ‘A house for Mr. Biswas” is an individual’s rebellion against social and economic tyranny and the achievement of freedom as a reward of that rebellion. Mr. Biswas’ ownership and possession of a house symbolize his freedom.

          Thus the title of this novel is highly symbolic and meaningful.

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