Paradigms of Marginality : A Critical Assessment

Any survey of recent Indian literature does clearly reveal that the voice of the voiceless or protest, in some form or other, is the oft-repeated and even the most notable theme analysed, evaluated and projected by writers of all genres with an avowed social purpose so as to offer a sweeping revolt by all means against economic exploitation, subjugation of women, oppression of the unprivileged and suppression of the untouchables and the marginalized. Marginalization is nothing but a kind of social exclusion, a social boycott, disadvantage and downgrading to the fringe of a caste, community or group of a society. English language, with its global base, has served as a useful tool of Dalit empowerment. It is a window through which readers are able to acquaint themselves with the writings of Dalits or on the Dalits. Present volume includes thirty insightful papers on the subject of marginality and subalternity by eminent teachers/scholar-critics and scholars. This book will, no doubt, serve the purpose of awakening the consciousness of the poor, downtrodden and the marginalized for forging their identities, thereby ensuring a society that values the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity. The kernel of this book comprises a critique of the marginalization thereby propagating the idea that Dalit writing or writing on marginality and subalternity is a social engagement. This volume is no doubt an endeavour to bring before its readers the vast areas that Dalit, subaltern and marginal literatures have travelled a lot in their journey since beginning.