Tuesday, April 21, 2015

How does Salman Rushdie challenge our assumption that history is impartial and neutral in his novel Midnight's Children?

Rushdie is able to challenge the supposed impartiality of
history by displaying it as a collection of narratives rooted in power- based
constructs.  One of the most powerful elements in Rushdie's work is the idea that his
display of history is subjective based.  Saleem's narration is not entirely reliable,
making significant errors at critical points.  It is also not entirely coherent, often
times lacking a central focus point in its end.  This episodic and occasionally
unreliable narration brings to light how Rushdie believes history is constructed. 
Totality and perfection are not elements that are within human reach.  Rather, Rushdie
seems to be arguing that historical subjectivity cannot be overcome.  History is always
written and composed by those in the position of power.  In the battle between Shiva and
Saleem, historical narrative falls under the force that has control, contributing to its
impartial nature.  This becomes why Saleem's narrative becomes so important, as it
represents a voice of resistance and individuality, as opposed to totality and
impartiality.

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