Quick Summary: The concept of the subaltern is a crucial component of postcolonial and cultural studies, contributing to a more diverse and nuanced understanding of societies, histories, and narratives.
In literature studies, the concept of the "subaltern" originated from the work of postcolonial theorist and historian Ranajit Guha and was further developed by scholars like Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak. The term "subaltern" refers to individuals or groups who are marginalized, oppressed, and excluded from the dominant power structures and narratives within a society. It's often used to describe those who occupy lower socio-political and economic positions, and whose voices and experiences are typically silenced or overshadowed by the dominant cultural and political forces.
The subaltern perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding and amplifying the voices and experiences of these marginalized groups. Subaltern studies focus on exploring the histories, cultures, and narratives of these groups that have been often overlooked or dismissed by mainstream historical and literary accounts. This approach challenges the traditional Eurocentric and colonial narratives and seeks to provide a more inclusive and complex understanding of historical events and cultural dynamics.
In literature, the study of the subaltern involves analyzing texts written by or about marginalized groups, and examining how these texts represent their experiences, struggles, and perspectives. It also involves critiquing the power dynamics within literature itself, considering how certain voices are privileged while others are marginalized.
Via: Economic and Political Weekly
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