Difficult Daughter: “A Reflection Of The Struggle Of Women For Autonomy, Independence And Education”.

Abstract

This paper explores various themes such as societal expectations, gender roles, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Education, Marriage, autonomy, independence are significant aspects of the novel. This paper intricately focuses on the multifaceted struggle of women in the context of autonomy, independence and education within the complex of socio-cultural milieu of post-colonial India. The narrative revolves around the protagonist, Virmati, who grapples with societal norms, familial expectations and personal aspirations in her quest for self-determination. Virmati’s journey is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by women because of patriarchal norms which are deeply entrenched in Indian society. Researcher highlights the oppressive structures that inhibit women’s autonomy. The societal constraints, familial pressures and gender expectations place formidable barriers in their path and their journey becomes a reflection of the broader feminist movement seeking to redefine women’s role in society. Virmati's pursuit of education becomes a powerful vehicle for challenging these structures, as she seeks knowledge and self-realization in defiance of societal expectations that limit women to traditional roles. So, the paper highlights the struggles of women in a conservative society and their quest for self-realization. In this male- driven society, where men are free to do anything freely, women’s only duty to get married and have children. Education is not considered as important as marriage. So, this paper analyzes the text through the lens of feminist theory by Simon De Beauvoir and Marry Wollstonecraft. This paper shows how the female characters of this novel following their traditional gender role but when they want to live a life on her terms and conditions, they have to go through all the trial and tribulations.