Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Saleem's Search for Identity
As we continue to discuss Midnight's Children, I have started to think about how there is so much chaos going on in the life of Saleem, and that it must be extremely difficult for him to feel as if he has a true identity. I don't know if any of yall are feeling this way but if I had 3 potential fathers, I would be a pretty confused person. As Saleem recounts the life of his family, which should identify him, he discusses the various confusing elements of his life that in my opinion would make him question himself.
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Much of Saleem's lack of identity can be attributed to his family problems. I agree Katherine- his true ancestry is confusing, because he was switched at birth with another one of midnight's children. This ties into the idea of what culture he truly belongs into, whether that of India or Britain. Also, the varying religions throughout the novel between Muslim and Hindu contribute to the overall theme of identity problems.
Like we discussed in class, a struggle for identity is a powerful theme in the novel. Saleem feels lost as he tries to determine his real family. However, we can't ignore the cultural ambiguity that pervades Midnight's Children. With British Oppression, the idea of "the other", and religious tension between Muslims and Hindus, I believe that a struggle for identity is simply inevitable.
Saleem definitely has identity issues throughout Midnight's Children. He has three potential fathers; one of which is British (demonstrating his internal struggle between European and traditional Indian values) Also, Saleen is torn between India and Pakistan. He loves both countries and is perplexed on which side to fight on. These two examples are but a few of the many identity issues throughout the novel.
Saleem's identity struggle reminds me of the ambiguity of Oskar's parentage as well. Due to their uncertain origins, both of these characters are insecure and constantly seek praise. Saleem, after his first "exile" from his parents, tries to be on his best behavior with his aunt and uncle because he is afraid that he will be completely abandoned. This fear plagues Saleem throughout his childhood and adolescence. After Mary's confession, Saleem comments on his mother and sister's behavior. Even though they continue to call him "son" and "brother," Saleem fears they won't view him the same way. He stops communicating with the Midnight Children for a period just to avoid Shiva, who he thinks will try to sabotage his relationship with his family if he finds out the truth.
Identity struggle is obviously a central theme in the novel. Beyond his confusion between three fathers, his name is confused in itself. Saleem is an Indian name, but Sinai references something that is Jewish and therefore Western. And then on top of that, he interestingly enough does not retain his true father's last name although the property that he lives on is still called Methwold's Estate.
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