Author: Premchand
Translator: Alok Rai
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2010
Language: English
Pages: 215
ISBN/UPC (if available): 019568264
Description
Now issued in paper back edition, this poignant novel by Premchand is a classic text of the woman as victim. Alok Rai's skilful translation, with a Foreword, and Afterword enables a new generation of readers to have an insight into the prehistory of 'feminist' thinking in India.
First published in 1928, this poignant novel by Premchand is a classic text of the woman as victim. It was originally serialized in a women’s journal and was huge success in its time, being perceived then as a progressive indictment of a corrupt patriarchal society. Young and vulnerable, Nirmala is married of to an elderly widower by her mother who cannot afford too pay a dowry for her. A forbidden relationship between the young bride and one of her three stepsons seems inevitable. But her jealous husband perceives the possibility of such a relationship long before Nirmala and her stepson do. Alok Rai’s skilful translation, with a Foreword, a detailed Afterword, and Glossary, enables a new generation of readers to have an insight into the prehistory of ‘feminist’ thinking in India.
Excerpts from Reviews :
'. . .Nirmala has compelling contemporary feel in terms of its style, and sweep and simplicity. . .a fabulous read. . .'
—Indian Express
'Alok Rai has. . .shown the remarkable ability of capturing the nuances of Premchand's narrative.'
—The Statesman
Contents
Foreword
Translator's Note
Nirmala
Afterword: Hearing Nirmala's Silence
Glossary