Women’s Agency in Jasoda (2017) by Kiran Nagarkar

Women’s Agency in Jasoda (2017) by Kiran Nagarkar

Exploring vulnerability, subjugation, and female agency in contemporary Indian literature

Arjona Alcalá, María del Carmen (Autor/a)

This monograph explores the theme of women’s agency in Kiran Nagarkar’s novel Jasoda (2017). The introduction presents the novel and provides an overview of Nagarkar’s life and work, along with a brief summary of Jasoda. The central aim of the monograph is to investigate how female characters are portrayed, focusing on the challenges they face and the ways they exercise agency. Three main areas of focus are explored: 1) the vulnerabilities women face due to gender and social inequalities, particularly regarding their access to essential resources and services in the Indian context; 2) the subjugation of women to male control, including gender-based violence both within and outside of marriage; and 3) the development of agency among the women in the story, as they assert their power and determination to shape their own lives. This research monograph delves into the social and cultural structures that influence women’s lives in India, examining issues such as the caste system, social practices, and norms that limit women’s opportunities. It also pays attention at how these societal frameworks contribute to the vulnerability and marginalization of women. The monograph highlights the various ways in which women are subjugated to male authority, especially in domestic spaces. Finally, it emphasizes the process of empowerment, showing how women in Jasoda find the strength to make difficult decisions and take control of their futures. Through detailed analysis, the monograph examines the five key female characters in Jasoda—Jasoda, Janhavi, Savitri, Madhurima Devi, and Raat Rani—illustrating their struggles and growth in the face of adversity. It also considers the broader implications of their journeys toward agency, offering insights into women’s empowerment in contemporary Indian society.

Como citar:

Arjona Alcalá, María del Carmen (aut.) (2025), Women’s Agency in Jasoda (2017) by Kiran Nagarkar. Exploring vulnerability, subjugation, and female agency in contemporary Indian literature. Córdoba: UCOPress – Editorial Universidad de Córdoba.