Violence as Resistance in Amitav Ghosh’s Sea of Poppies

Abstract

This research paper examines the theme of violence as resistance in Amitav Ghosh's novel Sea of Poppies. Through a close reading of the novel and a review of critical literature on postcolonial theory, the paper argues that violence is portrayed as a necessary and justifiable means of resistance against the oppressive power structures of colonialism. The paper analyzes several instances of violence in the novel, including the armed rebellion of the Indian sepoys and the violent actions of characters like Neel Rattan Halder and Baboo Nob Kissin. The paper argues that the use of violence by these characters is not only a form of resistance against colonialism, but also a means of asserting their agency and identity in the face of oppressive power structures. The paper also discusses the ethical implications of violence as resistance, and considers how the novel challenges conventional notions of morality and justice. Overall, this research paper contributes to the ongoing scholarly conversation on postcolonial literature and its engagement with issues of violence, power, and resistance.