Exploring Identity And Dissent In Fatima Bhutto’s The Runaways And Meena Kandasamy’s Exquisite Cadavers

Abstract

The present study explores the thematic similarities between identification and dissent in two modern novels, Exquisite Cadavers by Meena Kandasamy and The Runaways by Fatima Bhutto. Both writers use different story techniques to show how people fight against political oppression and social conventions. This study attempts to investigate how Bhutto and Kandasamy address themes of resistance, identity, and belonging in the framework of their narratives through a comparative analysis. The study additionally aims to explore how the cultural and socio-political environments influence the paths taken by the characters and how they express opposition. This study adds to the current conversation in modern literature about identity, dissent, and resistance; especially in the context of South Asia and the Middle East. By concentrating on two well-known female writers from the area, the study draws attention to the variety of voices and viewpoints that enhance the literary scene. Furthermore, the comparative approach clarifies the manner in which literature reacts to and reflects intricate socio-political realities, providing insightful perspectives on the human condition and the pursuit of both individual and group liberty.