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Semester 1: English Prose and Writing Skills
An Introduction to Indian Writing in English : Contributions of Sri Aurobindo, Rabindranath Tagore, K.S. Venkataramani, Bhabani Bhattacharya, R.K. Narayan, Mulk Raj Anand, Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Markandaya, Nayantara Sahgal, etc. towards the growth of Indian writing in English
Overview of Indian Writing in English
Indian Writing in English emerged as a significant literary movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The English language became a medium for Indian writers to express their thoughts, ideas, and cultural heritage, often bridging traditional Indian narratives with modern themes.
Sri Aurobindo
Sri Aurobindo was a philosopher, poet, and spiritual leader. He contributed to Indian writing through his poetry and philosophical prose, emphasizing the spiritual evolution of humanity. His works reflect deep insights into Indian culture and spirituality, marking a significant shift in Indian literature.
Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate in literature, made immense contributions through his poetical and literary works. He blended Indian themes with universal values, promoting nationalism, love, and the beauty of nature in his writings. His works like Gitanjali continue to resonate globally.
K.S. Venkataramani
K.S. Venkataramani was known for his novels that captured the life and struggles of Indian society. He explored themes of social reform and the impact of modernity on traditional values, providing readers with a deep understanding of the Indian ethos.
Bhabani Bhattacharya
Bhabani Bhattacharya focused on socio-political issues through his novels. His writing often highlighted the conflicts faced by individuals in a changing society, reflecting pre and post-independence India.
R.K. Narayan
R.K. Narayan is celebrated for his works depicting Indian rural life, especially in the fictional town of Malgudi. His simple yet profound storytelling style offers insights into the everyday lives of ordinary Indians, making complex themes accessible.
Mulk Raj Anand
Mulk Raj Anand is known for his social novels that address themes of caste, poverty, and social injustice in India. Through his writings, he aimed to awaken social consciousness and promote human values.
Sarojini Naidu
Sarojini Naidu, a prominent poet, and freedom fighter, used her poetry to express the emotions of patriotism and love for her country. Her lyrical poetry often celebrates Indian culture and the struggles for independence.
Kamala Markandaya
Kamala Markandaya's works reflect the challenges faced by women in India, both in traditional settings and amidst modernization. Her novels explore themes of identity, cultural conflict, and resilience.
Nayantara Sahgal
Nayantara Sahgal is known for her political novels, which depict the complexities of Indian society and the impact of historical events on personal lives. Her writing style combines personal narrative with broader social issues.
Elements of Short Story : Plot, Characterization, Narrative Technique and Structure Types of Prose & Prose Style : Autobiography, Biography, Memoir, Travelogue, Periodical Essay, Formal Essay, Personal Essay.
Elements of Short Story and Types of Prose
Elements of Short Story
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Plot
The sequence of events that make up a story, including the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
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Characterization
The process of creating and developing characters in a story, which includes their traits, motivations, and relationships.
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Narrative Technique
The method used to tell the story, such as first-person, third-person, or omniscient narration.
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Structure
The overall framework of the short story, including how the plot is organized and how events are connected.
Types of Prose
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Autobiography
A self-written account of the author's life.
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Biography
A detailed description of a person's life written by someone else.
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Memoir
A historical account or biography written from personal knowledge.
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Travelogue
A narrative that describes the author's travels and experiences in different locations.
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Periodical Essay
An essay published in a periodical, often discussing contemporary topics.
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Formal Essay
A structured essay that presents a well-supported argument or examination of a subject.
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Personal Essay
An essay reflecting the author's personal thoughts and experiences on a subject.
Prose Devices : Theme, Point of View; Sentence Pattern; Imagery; Tone or Mood; Analogy, Anecdote; Antithesis; Aphorism; Diction; Inversion; Humour and Pathos.
Prose Devices
Theme
The central idea or message of a work of prose. It reflects the author's viewpoint and intended meaning, often exploring universal human experiences.
Point of View
The perspective from which a story is told. Common types include first-person, third-person limited, and third-person omniscient. It influences the reader's connection to characters and events.
Sentence Pattern
The arrangement of words in a sentence. Variations include simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences. Sentence patterns can affect rhythm and clarity.
Imagery
Descriptive language that appeals to the senses. It helps create vivid pictures in the reader's mind, enhancing the emotional experience.
Tone or Mood
Tone refers to the author's attitude toward the subject, while mood describes the emotional response evoked in readers. Both are crucial for setting the atmosphere.
Analogy
A comparison between two different things to highlight similarities, often used to explain complex ideas by relating them to familiar concepts.
Anecdote
A short, personal story that illustrates a point or adds depth to a narrative. Anecdotes can engage readers and provide relatable context.
Antithesis
A rhetorical device that juxtaposes contrasting ideas in a balanced manner. It highlights differences and can emphasize a central theme.
Aphorism
A concise statement that expresses a general truth or principle. Aphorisms are memorable and often reflect wisdom or insight.
Diction
The choice of words and style of expression in writing. Diction can establish tone, convey character, and evoke emotions.
Inversion
A rearrangement of the normal order of words. It can create emphasis or a poetic quality, often used for dramatic effect.
Humour and Pathos
Humour involves using wit and amusement to engage the reader. Pathos appeals to emotions, aiming to evoke feelings of pity or sadness. Both can enhance the depth of prose.
Short Stories: O'Henry – The Last Leaf, Anton Chekhov – The Lament, Guy de Maupassant – The Terror
Short Stories: O'Henry – The Last Leaf, Anton Chekhov – The Lament, Guy de Maupassant – The Terror
The Last Leaf by O'Henry
The story revolves around two young artists, Sue and Johnsy, living in a garret in Greenwich Village. Johnsy falls gravely ill with pneumonia and becomes obsessed with the idea that she will die when the last leaf falls from the vine outside their window. Sue tries to encourage her, but Johnsy's despair deepens. An elderly artist named Behrman lives downstairs and, inspired by Johnsy's plight, decides to paint a leaf on the wall during a stormy night. The next morning, Johnsy sees the painted leaf still clinging to the vine and gains hope, ultimately recovering. Behrman, however, succumbs to pneumonia himself after his exposure to the cold and rain. The story highlights themes of sacrifice, hope, and the power of art.
The Lament by Anton Chekhov
This short story focuses on a man named Ivan and his lamentation over the death of his beloved son. The narrative explores Ivan's grief, touching on themes of loss, the burden of parental expectations, and societal pressures. Ivan encounters a merchant, who is more interested in business and profits than in grief. This contrast underscores the disconnection between personal sorrow and societal indifference. Chekhov skillfully portrays the depth of Ivan's sorrow while also critiquing the lack of empathy in people. This tale serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the unique nature of personal grief.
The Terror by Guy de Maupassant
In this psychological horror story, the main character experiences an overwhelming feeling of existential dread. Set in a desolate environment, the protagonist becomes consumed by the fear of the unknown and the inevitability of death. Maupassant's use of vivid imagery and sensory details creates an atmosphere of tension and paranoia, leading to a deeper exploration of human fear. The story reflects the underlying terror present in everyday life and the psychological impact of fear on the individual. It serves as a commentary on the human condition and the inescapable reality of mortality.
Short Stories: M.R. Anand – The Barber's Trade Union, R.K. Narayan – Under the Banyan Tree, Anita Desai – Games at Twilight
Short Stories Analysis
Overview of the Authors
M.R. Anand, R.K. Narayan, and Anita Desai are prominent Indian writers known for their contributions to English literature. Each has a distinct style and thematic focus.
The Barber's Trade Union by M.R. Anand
This story explores social issues through the lens of the barber community. It addresses themes of class struggle, solidarity, and the impact of modernization on traditional occupations.
Under the Banyan Tree by R.K. Narayan
This narrative centers around Indian village life and the wisdom imparted by elders. It reflects on traditions, the passage of time, and the significance of roots in culture.
Games at Twilight by Anita Desai
This story delves into childhood and the longing for recognition. It captures a poignant moment of despair and realization amidst the innocence of play.
Prose: Francis Bacon - Of Studies, Charles Lamb - Dream Children, Joseph Addison - Sir Roger at the Church
English Prose and Writing Skills
Francis Bacon - Of Studies
Bacon discusses the importance of studies for personal growth and professional development. He emphasizes that reading, writing, and reflecting are crucial for acquiring knowledge. Studies serve to delight, to ornament, and to enable. He categorizes books into three types: some to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some to be chewed and digested.
Charles Lamb - Dream Children
Lamb presents a nostalgic reflection on childhood and the nature of dreams. The essay explores themes of memory, the idealization of the past, and the relationship between reality and imagination. Lamb's style is conversational, and he uses vivid imagery to evoke emotional responses.
Joseph Addison - Sir Roger at the Church
Addison portrays Sir Roger de Coverley, a humorous and kind-hearted character, who represents the ideal country gentleman. The essay highlights themes of social harmony, community, and the contrast between urban and rural life. Addison's use of satire serves to critique societal norms while celebrating human virtues.
Prose: Virginia Woolf - Professions for Women, A.P.J. Kalam – Patriotism Beyond Politics & Religion (from Our Ignited Minds), Amartya Sen - Tagore & His India (from The Argumentative Indian)
English Prose and Writing Skills
Exploration of women's roles in society.
Critique of societal expectations and limitations placed on women.
Woolf's argument for creative freedom and self-expression.
Importance of understanding one's own identity.
Concept of patriotism that transcends political boundaries.
Emphasis on unity and diversity within India.
Kalam's vision for an inclusive society.
The role of education and youth in nation-building.
Tagore's contributions to literature and nationalism.
Interconnection of cultural identity and economic development.
Sen's perspective on Tagore's relevance in modern India.
Critique of reductionist views on culture and politics.
Computer & Writing Skills in English: Power Point Presentation, Letter writing – formal, informal/Letters of Inquiry/Complaints, Grievance Redressal Letters & Right to Information (RTI), Preparing Resumes/CV using Microsoft Word/Letter of Acceptance/Resignation (Job), Online Writing (Blogging, Content Writing, Effective E-mail Writing)
Computer & Writing Skills in English
Power Point Presentation
Understanding the basics of PowerPoint, creating slides effectively, using visuals and text appropriately, tips for engaging presentations.
Letter Writing
Differentiating between formal and informal letters, structure of letters, language and tone for various contexts.
Letters of Inquiry and Complaints
How to frame inquiry letters, necessary content for complaints, maintaining a professional tone.
Grievance Redressal Letters
Understanding the process, format of grievance letters, importance of clear communication.
Right to Information (RTI)
Basics of RTI, how to draft a request, importance of transparency.
Preparing Resumes/CV using Microsoft Word
Key elements of a resume, formatting techniques in Word, tailoring resumes for specific jobs.
Letter of Acceptance and Resignation (Job)
Components of acceptance letters, structure of resignation letters, professional language and tone.
Online Writing
Basics of blogging and content writing, understanding audience, effective email writing techniques.
