Amitav Ghosh: A Critical Companion

‘Looking back now, I am more than ever aware of the part that [Satyajit] Ray played in shaping the imaginary universe of my childhood and youth. I see this even in such details as my interest in science and science fiction; in ghost stories and the fantastical…When I saw Agantuk [The Stranger], in which the main character is an anthropologist, I began to wonder whether my interest in anthropology too, owed something,perhaps subconsciously, to Ray…’, ruminates Amitav Ghosh in this book. Ghosh discusses herehe the influence of Satyajit Ray on his work, and the functions of the narrative arts. Amitav Ghosh is widely recognised as one of India’s leading novelists. His work has won numerous literary prizes in India and abroad, has been translated into many languages and is required reading at several universities. This book examines Ghosh’s fiction through separate critical essays by reputed scholars in six countries. It includes a study of the early novels, as well as essays on In an Antique Land, The Shadow Lines, The Calcutta Chromosome, and The Glass Palace. These thoughtful, incisive and highly readable essays are grounded in the interests that infuse Ghosh’s fiction: history, science, discovery, travel, nationalism, subalternity, agency. It is invaluable for those interested in Ghosh’s work, providing ideas and starting points for scholars and students. An up-to-date bibliography on Ghosh’s works is also provided.