Author: Govind Narain Sharma
Publisher: Pragati Publications
Year: 1999
Language: English
Pages: 182
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8173070598
Description
With his wide acquaintance with the western critical tradition, Professor Sharma traces the evolution of Prem Chand's art, basing his discussion on a close analysis of the novels and short stories, respecting their integrity and autonomy as works of art.
Two trends seem to be dominant in Prem Chand criticism. On the one hand are the writers of dissertations, out to prove their theses; on the other are the 'progressive' critics in the grip of the ruling orthodoxy of the last sixty years. Both these trends have stood in the way of making an objective assessment of the complexity of Prem Chand's thought as well as his art. With his keen interest in the history of ideas, the author unravels the different strands in Prem Chand's thought. He demonstrates that while Prem Chand was deeply concerned with social and political problems, equally deep was his concern with moral and spiritual issues. And while his mind was independent and critical, his temper was traditional and conservative, firmly committed to the age-old values of India.