Masculinity in Crisis in Premchand’s Nirmala

Abstract

The present thesis entitled “Masculinity in Crisis in Premchand’s Nirmala” exposes the critical condition of masculine identity of most of the male characters in the novel. It also exposes the major causes and the consequences after the masculinity in crisis. Most of the male characters along with the protagonist Totaram, instead of confirming the male values, practices and traits,adopt and expose feminine traits. Their irrationality, immaturity, irresponsibility, poverty, timidity etc. are the major premises to prove their poor masculine power. They are no more authoritative, powerful and brave to correspond the masculine traits. They are so hopeless and desperate.The way in which they commit suicide and escape from the responsibilities by leaving their home are the strong evidences to show their timidity. Their irrationality, immaturity, and irresponsibility can be observed throughout the novel. Regarding all these weaknesses, this research discuses the prominent issue masculinity in crisis in the novel by Premchand.