Gender Role as Performance in GhanashyamKhadka’sNirvana
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Department of English
Abstract
This research analyzes Ghanashyam Khadka’s novel Nirvana from the
perspective of gender role as performance and female masculinity. It examines the
social construction of power, femininity and gender roles corresponding between sex
and gender identity. The characters show their performances through masculinity and
challenge the conventional gender roles. The major thrust of this research is to
examine how female characters have challenged the stereotypical patriarchal system
where women are tagged as inferior, feminine, and fragile. In addition, it also
analyzes how female characters establish their identities possessing confidence,
assertiveness, and independence. Using Judith Butler’s theory of gender
perform ativity where everyday action, gestures and representation, and behaviors
challenge the prescriptive and proscriptive approaches of sex, sexuality, and gender.
In addition,masculinity is exhibited through the perspective of Judith Halberstam’s
theoretical concept of Female Masculinity, where female characters Dipti, Monica,
Savita, and Aaryaa act like male characters and establish their identities.Finally the
analysis proves that the novelistis against the imposition of gender roles and
identities by patriarchal society. Also, this research emphasizes how a woman can
perform like a man. It also suggests that masculinity is not the sole property of male.
Masculinity is the social position that can be practiced in an individual way.
Keywords: Gender performativity, Female Masculinity, Femininity, Agency