ASSIGNMENT 201:- The Complexities of Nationalism in Rabindranath Tagore's Home and the World

 

This Blog is an Assignment of paper no:201 Indian English Literature (Pre-Independence). In this assignment I am dealing with the topic of The Complexities of Nationalism in Rabindranath Tagore's Home and the World.

The Complexities of Nationalism in Rabindranath Tagore's Home and the World

Personal Details:-

Name: Akshay Nimbark

Batch: M.A. Sem.3 (2023-2025) 

Enrollment N/o.: 5108230029

Roll N/o.: 02

E-mail Address: akshay7043598292@gmail.com

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- The Complexities of Nationalism in Rabindranath Tagore's Home and the World

Paper: 201

Subject code & Paper N/o.: 22406  

Paper Name:- Indian English Literature (Pre-Independence)

Submitted to: Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U. 

Date of submission: 20 November 2023

Points to Ponder:- 

• Abstract

• Introduction

• Ideologies of all Characters and view of Tagore

• Bimla’s Character

• Nikhil’s Character

• Sandip’s Character

• Tagore and Nationalism

• Conclusion

• Work Cited

Abstract:-

Nationalism in Home and the World is a key theme in Rabindranath Tagore's novel, set during the Swadeshi Movement in early 20th century India. The story explores the clash between traditional values and radical nationalist ideas. The central characters—Nikhil, Bimala, and Sandip—represent these differing perspectives, with "Home" symbolizing tradition and "World" representing intense nationalism.

Bimala, in particular, undergoes a dramatic change as she becomes more involved in Sandip’s nationalist cause, showing how political beliefs can deeply affect personal lives. Through this, Tagore’s story reflects the larger conflict between old and new ideas during a time of political change in India. It raises important questions about the impact of radical nationalism and the complex relationship between personal identity and national loyalty in a world that is rapidly transforming. This makes the novel a powerful exploration of nationalism.

Introduction:-

In Home and the World, Rabindranath Tagore captures the essence of the Swadeshi Movement in Bengal, while also focusing on the emotional and psychological journey of an impressionable young housewife, Bimala. As she moves from the sheltered life of a traditional Hindu wife into the turbulent world outside her home, the novel explores her internal struggle between the security of "home" and the allure of the "world" beyond. Tagore illustrates how love and politics can collide, revealing the tension between personal desires and political duties. (Ranjan) The novel is set during the political upheaval of 1905 Bengal, where the calls for “Swadeshi” and “Bande Mataram” filled the air, and it portrays the struggles of three main characters: Nikhil, his wife Bimala, and his friend Sandip. Through these characters, Tagore examines the conflict between nationalism and humanism. He shows how Sandip, driven by aggressive nationalism, urges the masses to burn British goods and resort to violence in the name of patriotism. Sandip represents the extreme, forceful nationalism that was growing among politically active Indians during the Swadeshi Movement. (Ranjan) At its core, the novel explores the division between the "home" as a symbol of personal and family life, and the "world" as the broader, often dangerous realm of politics and social struggle. Tagore uses this conflict to comment on the dangers of the outside world to those unprepared for its harshness. In his narrative, there is an inward movement toward preserving the home and its values, contrasted with an outward movement towards understanding the world beyond as a larger, more complex "home." (Ranjan) Tagore presents two contrasting approaches to India's freedom through his characters, Nikhil and Sandip. Nikhil’s perspective reflects a rational, peaceful approach focused on self-reliance and moral integrity, while Sandip represents the passionate, often violent extremism of the nationalist movement. Tagore’s own views on Indian independence are closely aligned with Nikhil’s vision. He rejected the aggressive nationalism that was gaining traction at the time, preferring a more constructive and peaceful path toward self-government. (Ranjan) Through Home and the World, Tagore reflects his own struggle against the jingoistic patriotism that was common in India at the time. As noted by Krishna Kripalani, despite his deep love for his country, Tagore was never a fan of the loud, aggressive forms of nationalism that were celebrated by others. His approach was always more measured and focused on true, moral independence. This more thoughtful perspective, however, led to his alienation from some of his fellow countrymen, even as he was later revered after his death. (Ranjan)

Ideologies of all Characters and View of Tagore:-

In The Home and the World, the two central male characters, Nikhil and Sandip, represent two distinct paths for the nationalist movement. Nikhil embodies rationalism, while Sandip advocates for a utopian vision. Meanwhile, Bimala’s character reflects the confusion and lack of freedom experienced by the colonized mind. In contrast, Sandip’s voice breaks traditional myths, and Nikhil’s offers a more idealistic, yet reasoned, approach to nationalism.

In their acts and thinking, both Nikhil and Sandip express male mastery over females in that they both take their relationship with Bimala as an experiment with their national ideologies. (Pham)

The Home and the World tells the story of three main characters: Nikhil, a wealthy landlord; Bimala, his wife; and Sandip, a passionate nationalist leader. Their lives are deeply affected by the political climate of the Swadeshi Movement. Nikhil is a progressive landowner, while Sandip is an enthusiastic fighter for India’s independence. Bimala, who is initially satisfied with her role as a housewife, becomes drawn into Sandip's nationalist cause.

In this novel, Tagore uses the characters not only to express his own views on nationalism but also to critique the dangers of destructive nationalism, which he believes can tear both the nation and the world apart. The story is told from the perspective of the three characters, each recounting their interactions with one another. Nikhil, Bimala’s husband, represents an idealistic, selfless husband who wants to free his wife from the constraints of traditional marriage. Sandip, on the other hand, is selfish and sees relationships between men and women as purely physical. His approach to life is blunt, unrefined, and driven by his own desires. (Monika)

Bimal's Character:-

In The Home and the World, Bimala begins as a seemingly innocent and obedient wife, completely devoted to her husband, Nikhil. However, Rabindranath Tagore deepens her character, revealing a complexity that goes beyond this initial portrayal. Bimala is symbolically linked to the goddesses Durga and Shakti. Durga represents both creation and destruction, while Shakti is the powerful force that shapes the universe. Through these divine associations, Bimala is elevated as a symbol of Bengal’s strength, beauty, and vitality.

Though her role as a submissive wife is clear at first, these symbolic connections give Bimala a greater significance. As Durga, she reflects the complex nature of life and the internal struggles in the story. As Shakti, she embodies the powerful feminine energy that drives change and transformation. Through Bimala, Tagore explores the balance between tradition and progress, presenting her as more than just a passive figure. She becomes a representation of femininity, societal change, and the divine feminine, all of which are deeply tied to the cultural and historical essence of Bengal.

Nikhil's Character:-

In The Home and the World, Nikhil represents a unique approach to nationalism, one that contrasts sharply with the more intense and radical views held by characters like Sandip. Several key aspects define Nikhil’s perspective:

Cosmopolitanism and Unity:

Nikhil has a broad, inclusive worldview. He values diversity and harmony among different communities and religions, believing that true nationalism should unite people rather than divide them.

Skepticism towards Radical Nationalism:

Nikhil questions the aggressive methods of nationalism seen in Sandip’s movement. He does not believe that violence or force should be used to bring about political or social change, advocating instead for a more peaceful and thoughtful approach.

Emphasis on Personal Freedom:

For Nikhil, individual freedom is a cornerstone of his beliefs. He is cautious about movements that might sacrifice personal liberties in the name of national goals. His vision of nationalism emphasizes preserving individual rights and autonomy.

Thoughtful Approach to Tradition: 

Nikhil does not reject tradition outright, but he critically engages with it. While he acknowledges the importance of tradition, he believes it should not be followed blindly, and that it must adapt to the changing times.

Intellectual and Ethical Foundation: 

Nikhil’s nationalism is based on reason, ethics, and education. He believes that meaningful change comes through dialogue, moral reasoning, and intellectual engagement, rather than through forceful action.

In essence, Nikhil’s view of nationalism in the novel is shaped by his cosmopolitanism, his skepticism toward radical nationalism, his commitment to personal freedom, his critical view of tradition, and his intellectual and ethical approach to change. His character serves as a thoughtful counterpoint to the more militant forms of nationalism presented in the story.

Sandip's Character:-

In the novel, Sandip and other activists begin to view Muslims as their adversaries because they refuse to join the boycott of foreign goods. This leads to frequent riots between Hindus and Muslims during the movement. The narrow-mindedness of these activists prevents them from understanding the importance of communal harmony for the progress of the nation. Sandip idolizes Ravana, believing him to be the true hero of the epic. He follows a philosophy that equates cruelty and injustice with greatness, stating:

"My theory of life makes me certain that the Great are cruel. Ordinary people are just, but for the Great, cruelty and injustice lead to success. It is through these forces that individuals or nations have risen to power. When a person or nation can no longer commit injustice, they fall into obscurity."

This belief leads to inevitable chaos, as a leader who follows such a philosophy will only create disorder and weaken inter-ethnic harmony, which will ultimately harm the nation. Sandip not only justifies his use of violence and manipulation but also revels in it. Tagore, in his essay "Nationalism in India," writes that a person's sense of sacrifice is misdirected from a moral purpose to the mechanical maintenance of the nation. This misguided sense of moral elevation makes such individuals dangerous to humanity.

Sandip's form of nationalism in The Home and the World is defined by its rigid and forceful nature. He advocates for extreme measures, including violence and emotional manipulation, in the name of rapid change. His charismatic leadership attracts followers, but it also highlights the dangers of unchecked passion in political movements. Sandip dismisses ethical boundaries in his quest for nationalist goals, which exposes the moral flaws in his approach. His character stands in sharp contrast to Nikhil, who champions a more thoughtful, intellectual, and morally sound vision of nationalism. The novel critiques the consequences of such extreme ideologies, offering a deeper look at the relationship between personal beliefs and the larger political landscape.

Tagore and Nationalism:-

Though literature as well novel had such an active participation in the formation of the institution of nationalism and though nationalism was accepted globally as the only legitimate form of political organisation, it was Rabindranath Tagore who had not an iota of positive sentiment towards the ideology of nationalism. Tagore‘s fundamental objection was on its very nature and purpose as an institution. To him nationalism is a social institution, a mechanical organisation, which was modelled on certain utilitarian objectives in mind. He opined that as nationalism came into being in the post-religious phase of the industrial capitalist socio-economic system, it was only an organisation of politics and commerce. To him, it would only bring harvests of wealth by the means of greed, selfishness, power and prosperity. The process would sacrifice the moral, the complete man making room for the political and commercial man, the man of limited purpose. For him, nationalism is not a spontaneous self-expression of man as a social being, where human relationships are naturally regulated, so that men can develop ideals of life in cooperation with one another. Tagore considered nationalism a recurrent threat for human civilization. (Raha)

Conclusion:-

In The Home and the World, Tagore presents a vision of nationalism that is compassionate and inclusive, where all Indians, regardless of gender, can participate as equals. In this ideal society, people would be united by trust, truth, and love. Through the novel, Tagore explores the impact of the Swadeshi movement on India, highlighting the ideological conflicts arising from modernization and British colonialism. These tensions are reflected in the contrasting views of Western and Eastern ideologies, represented by the characters Nikhil, Sandip, and Bimala. Tagore shows that these ideological struggles are not limited to the outside world but can also exist within the home, illustrating how deeply these issues can affect all aspects of life.

(Words:- 2070)

References:-

Monika. “Understanding Nationalism through Tagore's Novel The Home and the World.” Upstream Research International Journal, https://eupstream.com/images/journal/jan2018/monika.pdf. ccessed 12 November 2024.

Pham, Chi P. “Rabindranath Tagore's The Home and the World: Story of the Failure of the Nationalist Project.” eScholarship, https://escholarship.org/content/qt3fd5r9tk/qt3fd5r9tk_noSplash_e8e93f918cc8c4d4e28c5d3faa190f0b.pdf?t=n0io2f. Accessed 12 November 2024.

Raha, Dr. Debopam. “Tagore's Appraisal of the Ideas of Nationalism: a Study.” Research Publish Journals, https://www.researchpublish.com/upload/book/Tagores%20Appraisal%20of%20the%20Ideas-8130.pdf. Accessed 12 November 2024.

Ranjan, Pramod. “Nationalism in the Home and the World.” Quest Journals, https://www.questjournals.org/jrhss/papers/vol11-issue9/1109305308.pdf. Accessed 12 November 2024.