Locating Identity Crisis: Study of Relationship Between Orient and Occident in Khalid Hosseini’s Novel A Thousand Splendid Suns

Abstract

The present study explores a rich and complex narrative set in orientalist Afghanistan. Drawing theory by Edward Said, Orientalism could be seen as being introduced in terms of discourse by Said (1979). It seems to be separating the East in one dimension and the West into another by reflecting them as Orient and the other as Occident. Belsey(2007) deconstructed the dichotomous narrative into a complex but multidimensional phenomena and describes it as diversified identity by breaking the binaries. The study aims to identify the impacts of orientalism on characters within A Thousand Splendid Suns in terms of Orient and Occident dichotomy. The researcher would examine the Oriental and Occidental identities and culture in socio-culturally diverse and distorted society. By delving into cultural identity and complexities the literature reflects and shapes the identities and cultural narratives in a colonial context. The research design employs a qualitative approach, utilizing textual analysis and character studies to uncover the nuanced interplay of changing identities and cultural continuity in Afghan Society. This study aims to have the potential to contribute to Orientalist literary discourse and offer valuable insights into the enduring impact of colonial legacies and identity dynamics.