Discourse of the Marginalized: A Critical Analysis of Mulk Raj Anand's The Old Woman and The Cow

Abstract

Women have had lower social status in Indian traditional culture. The primary objective of the study is to critically evaluate Mulk Raj Anand’s novel The Old Woman and The Cow from a feminist perspective. By adopting this approach, the research aims to illuminate the marginalized voices within the narrative and explore the novel's treatment of gender, power dynamics, and societal norms. The analysis of the novel is grounded in feminist criticism, focusing on the portrayal of female characters, their agency, and the challenges they confront in a patriarchal society. The methodology involves closely examining the text, paying careful attention to character development, narrative structure, and thematic elements. The study reveals how Anand’s novel provides a platform for marginalized voices, emphasizing the resilience and agency of women in the face of adversity. It underscores the role of literature in challenging societal norms and advocating for social change.