Literary Druid
A Peer-Reviewed International Journal of English Language and Literature
Volume- 5, Issue- 4, October-2023
1. The Legacy of Girish Karnad and Renaissance of Indian Arts and Literature
Dr. C. Chellappan, Guest Faculty of English, Department of English and Comparative Literature,
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai-21, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
Girish Karnad, the revered Indian playwright, actor, and director, left an indelible mark on the world of arts and literature. His recent demise has sparked widespread discussions about his contributions and the cultural renaissance he spearheaded in India. Karnad was a literary genius who used his creative prowess to challenge societal norms, highlight the struggles faced by the marginalized, and revive the rich cultural heritage of India. His works continue to inspire a new generation of artists and ignite a renaissance in Indian arts and literature. This article explores the legacy of Girish Karnad, a renowned Indian playwright, actor, and director, and its influence on the Renaissance of Indian arts and literature. Karnad's contributions to Indian theatre, films, and literature have left an indelible mark on the artistic and cultural landscape of India. His innovative storytelling, incorporation of folklore, and exploration of socio-political issues have not only captivated audiences but also inspired a new generation of artists and writers. His powerful and thought-provoking plays brought Indian myths and folklore to the forefront and addressed deeply rooted socio-political issues. Karnad's artistic brilliance and his ability to blend tradition with contemporary themes have elevated Indian arts and literature to new heights. This article highlights his pioneering works, the impact he made on Indian theatre, and his enduring legacy.
Keywords: Girish Karnad, Indian Literature, Renaissance, Folklore, Socio-Political Issues.
2. The Philosophy of Emerson
Dr. G. Ekambaram, Head and Department of English, Lakshmi Bangaru Arts and Science College, Melmaruvathur - 603 319, Chengalpet District, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
Ralph Waldo Emerson is an important figure in American literary and philosophical literature. He was an American philosopher, author, poet, and lecturer who left a permanent mark in the transcendentalist movement of the nineteenth century. Emerson’s philosophical ideas on self-reliance, individualism, and intuition resound through his poems, essays, and lectures and continue to resonate with the intellectuals of the modern era. Emerson’s ideas created self-reliance and self-accreditation in individuals. His ideas are crucial to the decaying modern world. By analysing relevant scholarly sources, the enduring legacy of Emerson’s philosophy and its relevance to contemporary life can be explored. This study explores Ralph Waldo Emerson’s philosophy and core beliefs, such as self-reliance, nature, and the importance of intuition in life. This article examines his core concepts and their impact on society. Emerson’s influence on literature and his impact on contemporary philosophy are also analyzed. Through a thorough examination of key philosophical concepts, Emerson’s transcendental ideas are understood. Hence, this article deciphers the enduring relevance of Emerson’s ideas in identifying his philosophy.
Keywords: Ralph Waldo Emerson, Transcendentalism, Self-reliance, Nature, Philosophy.
3. Enhancing English Communication Skills through Effective Pedagogy
Dr. N. Prabakaran, Guest Faculty in English, Department of Comparative Studies and Foreign Languages,Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
English Language Teaching (ELT) plays a vital role in enabling individuals to acquire efficient communication skills in the world. This paper explores the importance of ELT in fostering effective communication among learners and various pedagogic methods. It also discusses various pedagogical approaches and provides insights into the challenges faced by both teachers and learners in the world of modern technology. The study also emphasizes the need for integrating modern technology and systematic and authentic study materials in ELT classrooms to enhance teaching language proficiency among the learners. In due course, the paper highlights the significance of a model learner-centred approach in English language acquisition to the learners and suggests strategies to facilitate an engaging and stimulating learning environment among the teachers of English.
Keywords: ELT, Communication Skills, Pedagogy, Learner-Centered Approach, LSRW.
4. Purification of the Self in the Select Poems of John Donne and Manikkavasakar’s Tiruvachakam
Dr. B. Senthil Kumar. Guest Lecturer in English, Alagappa Govt. Arts College, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
A mystic’s life denotes the beginning of a journey towards an endless spiritual life. Every step of the mystic journey has been an enlivening trial. In any case, the initiation of the self was disastrous and unexpected as birth, since it constantly means the awareness of a spiritual quest before illusion. The mystic distinguishes this birth of new awareness as spouted out with blended sentiments of delight and worship. It is awareness and an enchanted cognisant that secures reality as extraordinary and natural. The general inclination of a mystic is to find it in an individual state, which implies that the mystic grasps God with individual love transfiguring the spirit in the greatness of a transfigured universe and the response of oneself appears as a satisfaction towards the entire purification process. The Divine Beauty of the Mystic understands its limits and defects that horde malefic attractions that mediate between him and God and overcome tremendous separation that isolates him from the truth. John Donne, a Christian mystic has written many poems that have indicated his yearnings of his spiritual quest. Even though most of the poems are said to be love poems, his ideas are core to the union of Christian spiritualhood. Manikkavasakar, a Saivic mystic poet wrote Tiruvachakam, a spiritual treatise full of spiritual longings for the ultimate union with God. Both writers have a close concept of the purification of the soul which is seen in most of the lines of these poets. Hence, the article ponders over the reliable facts from the select works of the chosen writers.
Keywords: Purification, Self, John Donne, Poems, Manikkavasakar, Tiruvachakam.
5. Breaking the Hurdles of Women-Centric Oppression of Education as Expressed in “I am Malala”
Dr. V. Vasantha Kumar, Assistant Professor of English, Sourashtra College (Autonomous), Madurai.
Sulaiman Muhammad ISA, Lecturer I, Al-Qalam University Katsina, Katsina State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This article explores the audacious journey of Malala Yousafzai’s women’s rights and “I Am Malala”. It probes into the themes of the book and highlights the struggles and triumphs of Malala's life and her strong advocacy for girls' education. It discusses the international impact of Malala's story and the changes in education policies worldwide. “I Am Malala” emphasizes the transformative power of education. Malala argues that education is a way to acquire knowledge and to empower individuals to challenge the stereotypical social norms, poverty and pessimism in society. She evince a rallying cry for gender equality and illustrates the potential of every person in shaping the world. “I Am Malala” is a testament to the power of education in the face of hardship. Her autobiography is a powerful reminder for every child to access quality education. Her advocacy continues to echo globally creating a positive social change among countless individuals to support the rights of girls’ education and freedom in action. Hence, the article decodes the moral power and vision of Malala as expressed in “I Am Malala”.
Keywords: Malala Yousafzai, I Am Malala, Women's Rights, Education, Freedom.