Foe by J.M.Coetzee

 Welcome readers! This blog post is a response to a thinking activity assigned by Megha Ma'am from the Department of English at MKBU. This blog is a part of our thinking activity, and its primary focus will be on a comparative and critical analysis of Daniel Defoe's novel "Robinson Crusoe" and J.M. Coetzee's novel "Foe".  Let us begin with a brief introduction to the author and their respective works. J.M. Coetzee's novel "Foe" is a Contemporary retelling of Daniel Defoe's classic work, "Robinson Crusoe." 

 

' Thinking Activity'

" Foe"  - Novel  by John Maxwell Coetzee 

 

 "Foe" is a thought-provoking novel written by South African author J.M. Coetzee, published in 1986. This book is a reimagining of Daniel Defoe's classic work, "Robinson Crusoe," and it delves into themes of storytelling, colonialism, and the power dynamics between the colonizer and the colonized. Coetzee's novel introduces Susan Barton, a castaway who seeks to tell her own story but is continually thwarted by the character Foe, who attempts to reshape her narrative for his own purposes. Through this inventive and introspective work, Coetzee raises questions about the authority of storytelling and whose voices are heard and silenced in the process, making "Foe" a captivating exploration of the complexities of narrative and power.

 

 In J.M. Coetzee's novel Susan Barton is the main Protagonist and narrator. Coetzee's female narrator comes to new conclusions about Power and Otherness. she ultimately Concludes that language can enslave as effectively as can chains. The novel was written from Susan Barton's narrative point of view. she was from England and trying to convince the writer named Daniel foe to publish her story.  There are several major Plot differences in the two narratives. Though the island in Robinson Crusoe is full of cannibals and mutinies , the island susan Barton describes is empty and monotonous.  while author Daniel Defoe is not present in his 1719 novel, “Mr. Foe” is the titular character of Foe, which is focused primarily on who gets to claim ownership of what stories. There are many important themes in the novel. some of them are includes ;

                                                           Storytelling and Power , Motherhood and identity, Slavery , language and Colonialism etc.   The novel is of 157 Pages and divided into four Chapters. It was Published in the year 1986. 

          " Foe is satirical reinvention of Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe". 

  "Foe novel was the subject of criticism in south Africa." 

 J.M.Coetzee  :- 

John Maxwell Coetzee ( born on 9th February 1940 ) is a South african and australian novelist, essayist, linguist, translator and recipient of the 2003 Nobel prize in literature. He is one of the most critically acclaimed and decorated authors in the English language. Coetzee moved to Australia in 2002 and became an Australian citizen in 2006. He lives in Adelaide. He has won the Booker Prize ( twice ) , the CNA Literary Award ( thrice ) , the Jerusalem Prize and The Irish times ,  International fiction Prize and holds a number of other awards and honorary doctorates. 

 Coetzee's mother was a Primary school teacher. His father was trained as an attorney. Though his Parents were not of British descent , the language spoken at home was English. He began writing fiction in 1969. Coetzee has also been active as a translator of Dutch and Afrikaans literature. The Swedish academy stated that ; 

                                                    " Coetzee in innumerable guises Portrays the surprising involvement of the outsider.'' 

  The Press release for the award also cited his well - Crafted composition , and analytical brilliance , while focusing on the moral nature of his work. 

 

 Major Works by J.M. Coetzee : - 

   Novels 

1. Dusklands [ 1974]

2. In the Heart of the Country [1977] 

3. Waiting for the Barbarians [ 1980 ] 

4. Foe [ 1986 ] 

5. Age of Iron [ 1990 ] 

6. Disgrace [ 1999] 

7. Slow Man [ 2005 ] 

8. The Pole [ 2023 ] 

Autobiographical novels  :-  

 1. Boyhood  : Scenes from Provincial Life  1997 

2. Youth : Scenes from Provincial Life II 2002 

3. Summertime 2009 

Short Fiction :- 

1. The Lives of Animals 

2. Three Stories 

J.M. Coetzee is indeed considered an important and major figure in Post colonial studies. His works often explore themes  related to Colonialism , and the Postcolonial experience in south - africa.  

Key facts about the novel ' Foe'  :- 

Full Title :- Foe 

 When Written :- 1980s

Where Written :- Cape town , South africa 

 When Published :- 1986 

 Literary Period :- Post Modernism 

 Genre :- Novel 

 Setting :- A deserted island in the atlantic ; the various London residencies of author Daniel Defoe 

Climax : - Against susan Barton's wishes to be the sole narrator of her time as a castaway , Mr. Foe tries to teach susan's servant friday to write. 

Antagonist :- Daniel Defoe 

Point of View :- Susan Barton ( Female character ) is the novel's first Person narrator until the final section, which breaks with the straightforward narrative to hover more ambiguously between susan's and friday's Perspectives. 

 Let us get some information about both the texts :- 

 1. Robinson Crusoe :- 

 Robinson Crusoe is a novel by Daniel Defoe, first published on 25th April 1719. The first edition credited the work's Protagonist Robinson Crusoe as its author, leading many readers to believe he was a real Person and the book a travelogue of true incidents. Despite its simple narrative style, Robinson crusoe was well - received in the literary world and is often credited as marking the beginning of realistic fiction as a literary genre. It is generally seen as a contender for the first English novel. This book considered the most representative work of colonial. It showcases Robinson crusoe the eponymous Protagonist of the novel , as an invincible , all sufficient colonial patriarch who can live all by himself absolutely independent of everyone. 

                                                                                  

    

 Foe Novel by J,M.Coetzee :- 

 Foe is a novel by J.M.Coetzee in the year 1986, Which is set in the early 19th century. It is a Postcolonial novel, divided into four chapters. It is a satirical reinvention of Daniel Defoe's Robinson crusoe. Foe is written from the Perspective of susan Barton , a castaway who landed on the same island inhabited by 'Cruso' and 'Friday' as their adventures were already underway. Like Robinson Crusoe, it is also a frame story unfolded as Barton's narrative while in England attempting to convince the Writer Daniel foe to help transform her tale into Popular fiction. This novel Primarily focuses on language of language and Power, the novel was the subject of criticism in south Africa, where it was regarded as Politically irrelevant on its release. Coetzee revisited the composition of Robinson crusoe in 2003 in his Nobel Prize acceptance speech. 

Question 1 :- Write  a  detailed note on Comparative and critical analysis of Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe and J.M.Coetzee's Foe .

Answer :-    Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe" and J.M. Coetzee's "Foe" offer a captivating exploration of the colonial narrative from distinct vantage points. While Defoe's classic novel is a foundational work of English literature, chronicling the adventures of a resourceful castaway on a deserted island, Coetzee's postcolonial reimagining in "Foe" critiques and deconstructs the original narrative, interrogating the power dynamics inherent in colonialism and the silencing of voices on the margins. Coetzee's adaptation, told through the eyes of Susan Barton, a previously silent character in Defoe's tale, foregrounds the challenges and agency of marginalized voices, exposing the complexities of storytelling and the inherent biases in the colonial narrative. This critical analysis highlights the evolution of the colonial discourse, offering a compelling perspective on the enduring relevance and impact of these two works. 

"Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe and "Foe" by J.M. Coetzee are two novels that explore the theme of colonialism, survival, and the power dynamics inherent in relationships. A comparative and critical analysis of these two works reveals both similarities and differences in their approach to these themes.

1. Colonialism and Power Structures 

   - Robinson Crusoe :-  Defoe's novel, published in 1719, reflects the colonial mindset of the time. It portrays the character of Crusoe as a European colonist who establishes dominance over the island, taming it, and converting it into a mini-European society. Crusoe's relationship with Friday, a native islander, demonstrates the power imbalances of colonialism.

   - Foe :-  Coetzee's "Foe," published in 1986, is a post-colonial response to "Robinson Crusoe." It critiques the colonial narrative by focusing on the character Susan Barton, who challenges the Eurocentric perspective of Crusoe's story. Coetzee raises questions about who has the authority to tell the story and whose voices are marginalized in the colonial discourse.

2. Narrative and Perspective : ( His - Story and Her - Story ):- 

   - Robinson Crusoe : The novel is written in the first person, with Crusoe as the sole narrator. This singular perspective provides a limited view of events and emphasizes his personal survival and transformation.

   - Foe :- Coetzee's novel uses multiple perspectives, including Susan Barton's, Mr. Foe's, and Friday's, to present a more complex and inclusive narrative. This approach gives voice to those traditionally silenced in colonial literature.

3. Survival and Isolation :

   - Robinson Crusoe : The novel explores the theme of survival in a harsh environment, with Crusoe's isolation on the island for years. His resourcefulness and adaptation are central to the story.

   - Foe : Coetzee's novel also touches on survival, but it delves deeper into the psychological and emotional aspects of isolation, especially as experienced by Susan Barton. It questions the psychological toll of colonization on both the colonizer and the colonized.

4. Characterization: 

   - Robinson Crusoe : Crusoe is portrayed as a self-reliant, determined individual who imposes his will on the island and those around him.

   - Foe : The characters in Coetzee's novel, including Susan Barton and Mr. Foe, are more introspective and complex. Their motivations and actions are subject to interpretation, challenging readers to consider the nuances of their personalities.

5. Metafiction and Deconstruction :

   - Foe: Coetzee's novel can be considered a work of metafiction as it actively engages with the text of "Robinson Crusoe." It deconstructs and questions the colonial narrative while incorporating elements of the original story, blurring the line between fiction and commentary.

6. Narratorial Power and Authorship :

 - Robinson Crusoe :- In Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe, Crusoe has complete control over the narrative. It reinforcing his dominance. The author, Daniel Defoe remains hidden behind the Character's voice. 

 - Foe :- While In J.M.Coetzee's novel Foe challenges narratorial authority, it questioning that who gets to tell the story and whose voices are suppressed and Marginalised. The Character of Mr. Foe also raises the questions about authorship and storytelling. 

 7. Postcolonial Critique :

 Robinson Crusoe :- The Novel reflects the Colonial mindset of its time emphasizing the triumph the triumph of the individual over nature. 

 Foe :- On the other side, J.M.Coetzee's novel Foe can be seen as a satirical reinvention or Postcolonial critique of Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe. It explores the Problematic aspects of Colonization, Voices that are suppressed and Marginalized and ethical dilemmas faced by the Colonizers. 

8. Language as a tool : 

 Language serves as a crucial tool in both Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe and J.M. Coetzee's Foe. It Plays a significant role in the development of the narrative and exploration of themes. Let us see that how language functions as a tool in both these novels. 

1. Language as a tool in Robinson Crusoe :- 

- Tool of Communication :-   In this novel, Language is Primarily used as a means of communication between Crusoe and Friday. Crusoe teaches Friday and it Facilitates their limited understanding of each other and enables cooperation. Here In the Present novel Language is a tool for bridging Cultural and linguistic gaps. 

2. Language as a tool in Foe :- 

- Power dynamics and Authorship :-   In Foe, Language is a tool that Coetzee employs to explore the issues of narrative control, authorship as well as changing the Power dynamics. It becomes a mean by which Characters assert their agency within the story. The Protagonist and narrator of this novel Susan Barton seeks to tell her own story and challenge the dominant colonial narrative by using language as her tool. 

In both the novels Language is a tool that serves various purposes such as communication , self - expression, and empowerment. While Robinson Crusoe uses language as a means of personal survival and reflection. On the other hand, J.M.Coetzee in his novel Foe takes a more critical stance, using language as a tool to challenge and deconstruct established narratives and Power structures. These contrasting uses of language in both the novels contribute to the thematic depth and complexity of these two works. 

Conclusion  :-   In conclusion, this comparative analysis reveals how literature evolves over time to reflect changing societal Perspectives. The novel Foe not only reimagines Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe but also raises questions about the ethics of storytelling , authorship and the postcolonial experience. 

 Here, I end my blog. I hope this blog will be helpful to you..

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Conclusion : The Future of Post Colonial Studies

 ' Thinking Activity '

Welcome readers! This blog is written in response to the task assigned by Dr.Dilip Barad sir. In this blog, I will Summarize another Ania Loomba's article - " Conclusion : The Future of Post Colonial Studies." I have made seperate blogs for both the articles of Ania Loomba. Click here to Visit my blog on :- 

 Conclusion: Globalization and the future of Post Colonial Studies.

Conclusion : The Future of Post - Colonial Studies 

Some of the best known Practitioners of Post Colonial Studies, like Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, Claim that they no longer have a Post Colonial Perspective.  Post Colonial is the day before yesterday. For Some PostColonialists, both within and Outside literary Studies Such rethink has been Prompted by their engagement with new challenges, such as those Posed by environmental Studies. Thus Dipesh Chakraborty finds that all his readings in theories of Globalization, Marxist analysis of capital , Subaltern Studies, and Post Colonial Criticism over the last twenty five years have not Prepared him for the task of analyzing the Planetary crisis of climate change. In this Article Ania Loomba wants to briefly reflect on some of these challenges and what they mean for a Post Colonial critique. 

 Ecology is a new concern for many intellectuals and activist concerted with the Contemporary legacies of colonialism.  Climate change is coming as a big threat. There are so many videos available on You - tube about Climate change. It is important to see that;

    " How all Constructions destroy the Ecology. In that reference, Post Colonial argument and insights become important ."

Vandana Shiva , an environmental activist. She exposed the Connection between Colonialism and the destruction of environmental diversity.  She argues that the growth of capitalism , and now of trans - national Corporations , excerbated the dynamic begun under Colonialism which has destroyed Sustainable local cultures ; these cultures were also more women friendly , Partly because women's work was so crucially tied to Producing food and fodder. 

 " Ecology and human culture are intricately linked with each other." 

Ramchandra Guha and Juan Martinez Alier (1997) , Critics Point out is evident in America environmentalism and its obsession with the wilderness. Rob Nixon further notes that this wilderness obsession is celebrated in American literature as well as in natural history. Nixon suggests such 'Spatial amnesia' is one reason why Post Colonial Criticism has been suspicious of earth - first green Criticism and therefore has not engaged with questions relating to the environment.  

 Ken Saro Wiwa - environment activist from Nigeria led MOSOP or the Movement for the survival of the Ogoni People , an indigenous group in southeast Nigeria, whose Oil - rich homelands were targated for drilling by multinationals, leading to their large scale displacement and to wide scale environmental destruction. Ken saro viwa executed after criticizing the activities of the multinational Oil Compines in Nigeria.

 In India , the Narmada Bachao Andolan  (NBA) led widespread Protests against a Project , funded by multinational as well as indigenous capital, to build scores of large dams across central India. The Protests highlighted not just the ecological damage but also the displacement of thousands of trible Peoples all across the Narmada Valley. 

  Chittaroopa Palit , One of the leaders of the NBA says that , 

      " She and her Comrades learnt a lot about the structures and Process of Globalization through these Struggles. NBA developed new forms of resistance by drawing on the rich experience of the local people and their knowledge of the land." 

 In sharp Contrast is the resistance to the Plunder of the forests in central India by Iron and bauxite mining compaines. The movement here is led by Maoist Guerrillas who have taken control of large swathes of territory and are being hunted by the Police and the army. 

 Arundhati Roy writes that the Constitution of free India 'ratified Colonial Policy and made the state state custodian of tribal homelands. Over night, it turned the entire tribal Polulation into squatters on their own land. It denied them their traditional rights to forest Produce, it criminalised a whole way of life.' 

  Further , Karl Marx explained that ; 

   " The enclosure of the commons was crucial to the birth of capitalism. He describes the Process in England : beginning at the end of the fifteenth century, the forcible usurpation of Communal Poverty occured first by means of individual acts of violence and later through the Parliamentary acts for Enclosures of the commons. Along with Slavery and colonialism, the takeover of the commons and the conversation of various forms of collective Peoperty rights into Private Property involved dispossessing large Sections of the Population, both in the Colonising and Colonized countries, So that wealth would be accumulated by a few. It also turned those dispossessed People into landless labourers and forced them into a cash economy; their work was thus Commodified. In short it give us the idea that ; 

   " How One can Protect  Commoners." 

 Rosa Luxemburg's Work :- "The Accumulation of capital." She is not agreed what Karl Marx has Said. She suggested the need to revise Marx. Karl Marx visualised capitalism as a closed system. She argued that for capitalism to thrive it constantly needs new markets for its goods, which cannot be consumed entirely within the system. Luxemburg 's ideas remain important today for two reasons. 

1. Firstly, she alerts us to the deep historical Connections between trade and  colonialism.  

2. Secondly, she reminds us that accumulation is a Constant Process rather than a Past event. 

 Amitav Ghosh's recent book, "The River of smoke" offers a deeply Compelling Fictional account by looking at the Opium trade and war in China. 

 David Harvey suggests that we redefine 'Primitive accumulation' as accumulation by dispossession. Nationalised industries have been Privatised.  Family farming has been taken over by agribusiness. And Slavery has not disappeared.  

 Swapna Bannerjee Guha argues that accumulation by dispossession is at the very heart of neoliberal development. Concluding that it involves not just dispossession from land but losing rights over nature , livelihood Practices , related knowledge and even culture - all that capital needs to appropriate for its expnasion and increasing Profit. 

  In one of the essay , Dipesh Chakraborty writes that ; 

          " Whereas historians had Previously assumed that the environment changed so slowly as to be a negligible factor in human history, we have now reached a ' tipping Point' where it is clear that human beings have become geological agents' in a much more drastic and immediate Palpable way. They are now the main determinant of the environment of the Planet , ushering in a new geological age that can be called the Anthropocene. " 

In short he gave idea about ; 

  " Towards a new Universalism and the Anthropocene. " 

  In last, Ania Loomba Suggested and highlighted four areas about the Future of Post Colonial Studies.  

 1. The Environment 

 2. The history and Present of indigenous Peoples and societies.

 3. Post modern histories and cultures

 4. The Ongoing Colonization of territories labour and Peoples by global capitalism.  

 Here are some examples of Movies which depicts the environmental crisis and concerns.  

 1.Sherni :- 

 

Sherni is 2021 film about a Female forest  officer assigned a task with capturing and  containing a man eating tigress in a remote village. This Film depicts the Wildlife Conversation. 

 2. Don't Look Up :- 

 Don't Look up 2021 film about two low - level astronomers must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy Planet Earth.

 3. RRR :- 

 The Film RRR is also about that. Jal ( Water) , Jamin ( Land) and Jungle ( Forest).

 To conclude, I have tried to analyze this Article of Ania Loomba about Conclusion: The Future of Post Colonial Studies and give some examples of selected movies which depicts environmental Concerns. 

 I hope you will find this blog useful.. 

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Conclusion: Globalization and the Future of Post Colonial Studies

 Welcome readers! This blog is written in response to the thinking activity assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir from Department of English, MKBU. In this blog I am going to summarize two articles from Ania Loomba's book - 'Colonialism and Post Colonialism about Post Colonial Studies.  The First article is Conclusion : Globalization and the future of Post Colonial Studies (2nd Edition) and another one is Conclusion : The Future of Post Colonial Studies (3rd Edition).  But, First let's understand the concept of Postcolonial Studies. 

 ◇ What  is Postcolonial  Studies  :- 

  The interdisciplinary approach embraced by Post Colonial Studies Provides a Variety of academic tools and Perspectives to study the Social, Cultural and Psychological aftermath of Colonialism and the identity crisis generated in the wake of decolonization.  In another words, Postcolonialism is the critical academic study of the Cultural, Political and economic legacy of Colonialism and Imperialism , Focusing on the impact of human Control and exploitation of Colonized People and their lands. The field started to emerge in the 1960s, as scholars from Previously colonized Country began Publishing on the lingering effects of Colonialism, developing a critical theory analysis of the history, Culture, literature and discourse of imperial Power. 

One Possible definition for Postcolonialism is that ; 

            " It involves a studied engagement with the experience of Colonialism and its Past and Present effects, both at the local level of ex - colonial Societies and at the level of more general global developments thought to be the after- effects of empire."

 Postcolonialism often also involves the discussion of experiences such as Slavery, migration, suppression and resistance, difference, race, gender and Place as well as responses to the discourses of imperial Europe such as history, Philosophy, anthropology and lingustics. 

  ◇ What is Globalization  :- 

  Globalization is the word used to describe the growing interdependence of the world’s economies, cultures, and populations, brought about by cross-border trade in goods and services, technology, and flows of investment, people, and information. Countries have built economic partnerships to facilitate these movements over many centuries.  The Wide - ranging effects of Globalization are Complex anf Politically charged. As with major technological advances , Globalization benefits Society as a whole , while harming certain groups. In simple Words ; 

   " Globalization is a term used to describe how trade and technology have made the world into a more Connected and interdependent Place." 

 Globalization also captures in its scope the economic and social changes that have come about as a result. 

 □ Conclusion  : Globalization and the future of Post Colonial Studies 

 This Particular article talks about the relationship between Globalization and the Future of Post Colonial Studies.  She examines the impact of Globalization on Post Colonial Studies.  She argues that Globalization has led to a more interconnected and transnational world, which has both challenged and expanded the Scope of Postcolonial  Studies.  Ania Loomba identifies several key areas in which Globalization is transforming Postcolonial Studies.  

Globalization has led to the movement of people and Cultures across borders, creating new transnational Communities. Post Colonial Scholars are increasingly examining the experience of these communities, as well as they challenge and redefine traditional notions of Identity and belonging.  

  ● " Post Colonial tool become very much Intresting when it comes to question."

This article also talks about the Perspectives of different Scholars like Thomas Friedman, Hardt and Negri , Joseph E.Stiglitz and P.sainath. In addition to that It also talks about Globalization and its Discontents  - Work by Noam Chomsky.  

 1. 9/11 Attack :-

  The 9/11 Attack also known as September 11 Attacks. This Particular events investigates that how the Concept of Global war intertwines with Globalization, giving rise to discussion on violence within this Context. This tragedy served as a catalyst for the emergence of the New American Empire and the Subsequent Global war on terror.

 Ania Loomba rightly observed that ; 

    " Since the events of 11 September 2001, the so called global war on terror, and the US invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, it is harder than ever to see our world as simply Post Colonial. As the new American Empire develops, openly and shrilly advocated by Policy- makers , Politicians, and academics. Within the US and elsewhere, it is more since the events of 11 September 2001, the so called global war on terror and the urgent than ever to think about the questions of dominations and resistance that have been raised by anti Colonial movements and Post Colonial studies worldwide. " 

2. Market Fundamentalism :- 

 Market Fundamentalism Sheds light on the role of global institutions like the world Bank and the IMF in shaping the global economic landscape.  

P.Sainath further explores the destructive impact of Market Fundamentalism. In seminar Paper and Then There was the Market, he makes this Particular Observation : 

 " Market Fundamentalism destroys more human lives than any other simply because it cuts across all national, Cultural, geographic, religious and other boundaries.  It is as much at home in Moscow as in Mumbai or Minnesota. South - africa whose advances in the early 1990s thrilled the world moved swiftly from apartheid to Neoliberalism. It sits as easily in Hindu, Islamic or Christian Societies and it contributes angry, despairing recruits to the armies of all religious  Fundamentalisms. Based on the Premise that the Market is the soultion to all the Problems of the human race, it is too a very religious Fundamentalism.  It has its own Gospel : The Gospel of st. Growth , of st. Choice."

 The impact of Market Fundamentalism on Globalization is a contentious issue, as Some argue that the actual measures taken under Globalization resulted in the Process of imposition and underdevelopment. Moreover, Some critics also claim that new Global Powers apply a theory that , while facilitating global Connections and creating new Opportunities, but it also entrenches divisions.  

3.Empire:- 

Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri are theorists of Globalization , who take the Contemporary world to function in a way that is distinct from its Modern Past. According to them ; 

 " Empire as a Universal Order that accepts no boundaries or limits." 

 It shows that how this emerging empire is fundamentally different from the Imperialism of European dominance and Capitalist expansions in Previous eras. Hardt and Negri open their case in Empire by arguing that nation state based systems of Power are rapidly unraveling under the onslaught of world capitalism. Globalization cannot be understood as a simple Process of de - regulating world markets. The old conformist ideas of empire is that of the existence of a statist world of rulling class and Proletariat of a dominant core and a Subject Periphary.  

 This statist world is breaking down and is being replaced by a less dichotomous and more intricate and Complicated Pattern of inequality. It is generally thought that if the Contemporary world system can be described as anempire, it is because of the overwhelming concentration of financial, diplomatic and military Power in American hands. Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri argued that ; 

 " Globalization is transforming individual nation states into a System of diffuse national and global institutions of Power in other words a new type of Empire which raises the Possiblity for a multitude of peolpe to fight it." 

   The Conclusion that Hardt and Negri draw in Empire , is that Contemporary Globalization,  though it certainty introduces new forms of capitalist command and exploitation, to be welcomed because it is capital 's latest concession to the force of insurgent subjectivity. It contains the seeds of another Globalization , the counter empire of global Communism.

4.Role of Universities:- 

 The notion of the New Imperialism extends its Influence into the relam of educational institutions, Where it raises critical questions about the Preparation of the best and brightest students for Imperial missions. Nilall Ferguson suggest that ; 

 " United States should Consider sending its most talented  students; often hailing from its leading Universities , to fulfill this mission."

 It seems that the Critique of Globalization is not accepted and hence, using the crisis of 9/11 and global war on terror, the Post Colonial studies is also attacked. Ania Loomba Observed that disciplines of history and literature are also not extempt from this Politics of Patriotism and hyper nationalism. "Those who do not teach western history and literature are not exempt from Critique, In an earlier report ACTA ( Anti - Counterfeiting Trade Agreement) had complained not only that Shakespeare was being dropped from required courses but that Shakespeare and Renaissance were being Polluted by a Focus on Social issues such as Poverty and Sexuality. " 

 One of Edward Said's most valuable achievements in Orientalism was not simply to establish the Connections between Scholarship and state - Power in the Colonial Period, but to indicate its afterlife in a Post - Colonial global formation with the US as its Epicenter.  This Article ends with the lines that ; 

  " If Universities are to remain sites of dissent and free intellectual inquiry , if scholarship is not be at the service of American or any other Power, Critiques of Past and ongoing empires are going to be more necessary than ever. 

 Now Let us see some of the examples of movies which happened due to Globalization.  

1. Tigers :- 

This film based on the true story of former Nestle Pakistan Salesman who fights against multi national Compaines.  In this movie we can find the Conflict between One man and Corporate World. 

2. Ghayal  once again  :- 

  This Film depicts the Conflict of four youngsters who witnessed the murder of an RTI activist by a powerful businesses owner Bansal.

 3. Reluctant Fundamentalist :- 

  This film is directed by Mira Nair and it is about the Conflict of Market and religious Fundamentalism in the  aftermath of 9/ 11 Attacks.  This movie is adapted from Mohsin Hamid 's novel with the same title. 

4. Rang De Basanti :-

 

  Rang De Basanti is a 2006 film about the Clashes and Conflicts between Politician and businessman v/s a group of young college Boys. One of them has to Confront his own Corrupt father before taking on a Politician.

 

To  Conclude, I have tried to analyze this Article of Ania Loomba about Conclusion  : Globalization and the future of Post Colonial Studies and give examples of selected movies. 

 I hope you find will find this blog helpful..

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The Wretched of the Earth

Welcome, readers! This blog is written in response to the thinking activity assigned by  Megha Ma'am from Department of English at MKBU. In this blog, I will explore the questions and answers related to Frantz Fanon's work, 'The Wretched of the Earth.' But before we delve further, let's begin with a brief overview of Frantz Fanon and his non-fiction work. 

  Frantz Fanon's ' The Wretched of the Earth ' :- 

'The Wretched of the Earth' is a seminal work by Frantz Fanon , a Psychiatrist, Philosopher and a revolutionary writer. The book is a critical analysis of the effects of Colonization and the Psychological and Social impact it has on Colonized Peoples.  Fanon explores the dehumanizing effects of Colonialism, the violence it generates , and the Potential for a revolutionary response by the Colonized.

 His ideas have had a Profound influence on Post Colonial Studies , Political theory and decolonization movement worldwide. This book is a complex to understand because it is a Non fiction work. It addresses the varoius aspects of Colonization, decolonization and the Psychology of both Colonizers and Colonized. Fanon's work is Praised for its insights into the Psychology of Colonialism and Critiqued for its endorsement of a violence as a means of resistance. 

  ◇ Frantz  Fanon :- 

   Frantz Omar Fanon was born in the French Colony of Martinique on July 20, 1925. He was a Francophone Afro - Caribbean Psychiatrist, Political Philosopher and Marxist from the French Colony of Martinique. His works have become influential in the fields of Post - Colonial Studies , Critical theory and Marxism. 

  " He was Concerned with the human, Social and Cultural Consequences of decolonization. " 

   Frantz Fanon was one of a few extraordinary thinkers. Supporting the decolonization Struggles occurring after World war - 2, and he reamains among the most widely read and influential of these voices. His brief life was notable both for his whole hearted engagement in the Independence Struggle the Algerian People waged against France and for his astute, Passionate analyses of the human impulse towards freedom in the Colonial Context. Tracing the development of his Writings helps explain how and why he has become an inspirational figure firing the moral Imagination of People who continue to work for Social justice for the marginalized and the Oppressed.  

◇ Works by Fanon  :- 

□ " Black Skin, White Masks" (1952)

□ " A Dying Colonialism " (1959)

□ " The Wretched of the Earth " (1961)

□ " Toward the African Revolution " (1964)

     Collection of essays , Published after Fanon's death. 

 □ " The Fact of Blackness "

 □ " Alienation and Freedom" 

 Frantz fanon tries to give some kinds of hints to Colonized People, through this text ' The Wretched of the Earth'. This book has a lasting effects on the minds of People and readers. 

 ◇ ' The Wretched of the Earth '  :-

' The Wretched of the Earth ' is a Non fiction work by the Philosopher Frantz fanon , in which the author Provides a Psychoanalysis of the dehumanizing effects of Colonization upon the individual, and the nation. He discusses the broader Social, Cultural and Political implications of establishing a Social movement for the decolonization of a Perosn and of a People. This work is Originally written in French language.  The French language title derives from the Opening lyrics of  " The International anthem." 

 The Preface of this work is written by Jean Paul  Satre. This work is mainly divided into Six Chapters.  

 1. Concerning  Violence ( Violence in the International  Context)

2. Sponataneity  : Its Strengths, Weakness 

3. The Pitfalls of National Consciousness 

4. On National Culture 

Raciprocal  Bases of National Culture and the fight for freedom 

 5. Colonial  war and Mental Disorders Series - A,B,C,D.

6. Conclusion 

       Watch these two videos for the better understanding about  Frantz Fanon's work :- "The Wretched of the Earth".  

 ◇ Why Fanon Wrote the  book - ' The Wretched of the Earth '  :- 

 Frantz Fanon wrote the book "The Wretched of the Earth" to analyze and critique the effects of colonialism on the psychological, social, and political lives of colonized people, as well as to advocate for decolonization and the empowerment of oppressed nations.

 ◇ Personal and Professional  Background  :-

 Yes, Frantz Fanon's personal and professional background significantly influenced his perspective and motivation for writing "The Wretched of the Earth." His experiences as a psychiatrist and his personal experiences growing up in Martinique and working in Algeria during its struggle for independence provided him with unique insights into the psychological and social impacts of colonialism and oppression. These experiences contributed to his desire to address these issues through his writing.

  " Fanon believes that Violence is necessary for liberation." 

 Before delving into question and answers, it is important to first grasp some terms that are directly related to Fanon's work. Understanding these terms is crucial, as they provide the necessary context to comprehend what Fanon aims to convey through his book, "The Wretched of the Earth." These are indeed terms related to Fanon's work and the broader field of Post Colonial Studies.  

 1. Colonialism  :-   Full or Partial Control over another country exploiting it economically.  

  Colonizers: French (Settler, Dominant)

 Colonized: Algerian People/Society.     (Dominated by Colonizers)

  

2. Post -  Colonialism  :-   After effect of Colonial rule. 

 3. Decolonization  :-  Process of being free from Colonialism or Colonial rule. 

 4 . Neo - Colonialism  :-   Dependency, Existence of Colonialism in the minds of People.  

 

Question 1 :- What is the role of Violence in Colonialism with reference to the Wretched of the Earth? 

 Answer :-   Frantz Fanon wrote 'The Wretched of the Earth' in face of the horror of the Algerian Civil war and in the broader Context of anti - Colonial liberation Struggles in Asia, Africa and the Americans. Such experiences had showed that ; 

   " Violence is necessary both to impose domination and to break free from it." 

Fanon argues that Colonialism is also a System of violence , which seeks to control and Oppress the Colonized through Violent means. Colonial Control was taken by violence and is maintained in much the same way. Moreover, he implies that there is no end to the violence of Colonia it doesn't stop once Power is established. Rather, Violence is a Constant Presence that is front and centre in lives of all Colonized individuals.  

 Frantz fanon refers to the wide spread Violence in colonial Countries as "atmospheric Violence", which he claims is Perpetually "rippling under the skin." To Fanon this Constant Violence is Proof that Colonialism cannot be overcome through Peaceful or Passive means. The Colonized masses, Fanon asserts ; 

                  "Intuitively believe that their liberation must be achieved and can only be achieved by Force." 

 For the Colonized, " Violence is a Cleansing  force."   As a Practice rooted in violence, Fanon argues that Colonialism must be answered in the same way. So, In that way Fanon Clears the Concept of Violence in the First chapter of the book.

Question 2 :- What is the national bourgeoisie and why does fanon think it is useless?

Answer :-   Frantz Fanon, a prominent thinker and psychiatrist from Martinique, discussed the concept of the national bourgeoisie in his work, particularly in his book "The Wretched of the Earth." The national bourgeoisie refers to the emerging class of indigenous or local capitalists and business owners in colonized or post-colonial societies. Let us discuss that why Fanon viewed them as "useless" in the context of decolonization:

1. Economic Dependency :-  Fanon argued that the national bourgeoisie often maintained economic ties with the former colonial powers or foreign interests. They continued to collaborate with these external forces, which led to economic dependency and hindered true economic independence for the nation.

2. Cultural Assimilation :-  Fanon believed that the national bourgeoisie often adopted the cultural values and lifestyles of the colonizers, distancing themselves from their own cultural roots. This assimilation created a divide between them and the broader population, making them disconnected leaders.

3. Political Conservatism :-  Fanon observed that the national bourgeoisie tended to be politically conservative. They were more concerned with preserving their economic interests and privileges rather than actively participating in the struggle for national liberation or addressing the social injustices faced by the majority of the population.

4. Failure to Address Social Issues :-  Fanon contended that the national bourgeoisie, focused on their economic gains, ignored the pressing social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and the plight of the rural and urban poor. This disregard contributed to the perpetuation of social injustices.

5. Ineffectual Leadership :-  Fanon argued that the national bourgeoisie often lacked the vision and revolutionary spirit required to lead the decolonization movement effectively. Their self-interest and compromise with the old colonial structures weakened their leadership and undermined the struggle for true liberation.

To Conclude , Fanon's criticism of the national bourgeoisie stemmed from his belief that they prioritized their personal economic interests a  nd the preservation of their privileges over the broader goals of national liberation and social justice. He saw them as ineffective and, in some cases, as collaborators with the forces of colonization, which he believed hindered the true emancipation of their societies.

Question  3 :- Describe What Maniechaesim means in Colonial Context? 

 Answer :-    Maniechaesim is a term used for a dualistic religious system with Christian Gnostic and Pagan elements , founded in Persia in the 3rd century by Manes.  

Maniechaesim is a dualistic world view. In the Colonial Context, it divides the world into just two Classes of people : the Colonized and the Colonist. To the Colonist, the Colonized are black and evil whereas the Colonist is white and good. The revolutionary Opponent of Colonialism flips this Opposition : to him , the Colonized is Virtuous, and the colonist is evil and must be overthrown.  

 Question 4 :- Write a Short note on the title "The Wretched of the Earth." 

Answer  :-    "The Wretched of the Earth" is a powerful book written by Frantz Fanon, a psychiatrist and philosopher, in 1961. It is a seminal work in the field of post-colonial studies and explores the psychological and sociopolitical effects of colonialism on colonized peoples.

Fanon's book delves into the experiences of those living under colonial rule, whom he refers to as "the wretched." He discusses the dehumanizing impact of colonialism, the psychological trauma it inflicts, and the ways in which violence can emerge as a response to oppression. Fanon also provides insights into the process of decolonization and the challenges faced by newly independent nations.

"The Wretched of the Earth" remains a thought-provoking and influential text that has inspired discussions on liberation movements, identity, and the enduring legacy of colonialism. Fanon's analysis of the struggles faced by colonized people continues to be relevant in contemporary debates on social justice and decolonization.

 

Question 5 :- What is the relation Fanon describes between Culture and Combat?

Answer  :-   For Fanon, culture and combat must be intimately connected. Culture should be produced by and through the fight against colonization.  It does not precede combat, but absorbs the rhythms of Combat into itself. In turn, intellectuals need to be on the front lines of the fight along with the revolutionaries. That is where Culture is made. 

 Conclusion  :- To Conclude, we can say that The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon highlights the impact of colonization, advocates for decolonization, and calls for oppressed people to reclaim their identity and freedom.

[ Words :-  1833]

[ Images  :- 05 ]

[ Videos  :- 04 ]

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