Do you agree with the view that all Dattani characters speak the same homogenised convent English? Discuss Dattani’s use of English in Tara

Q: Do you agree with the view that all Dattani characters speak the same homogenised convent English? Discuss Dattani’s use of English in Tara

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The view that all the characters in Mahesh Dattani’s play Tara speak the same homogenized Convent English merits a nuanced discussion. Dattani’s use of English in Tara is deliberate and multifaceted, reflecting both the social contexts of the characters and the cultural realities of contemporary Indian society. Here’s an analysis of how Dattani employs English in the play, as well as a consideration of the homogenization argument:

1. Characterization and Social Background

  • Socioeconomic Status: While many characters in Tara do communicate in a polished, educated form of English, which may appear homogenized, this reflects their socioeconomic background. Characters like Tara and her parents belong to an upper-middle-class family, which is often educated in English-speaking institutions. Their fluency in English serves as a marker of their social status and aspirations, aligning them with global norms and standards.
  • Cultural Nuances: However, Dattani does infuse the dialogue with cultural nuances, including references to Indian customs, social dynamics, and familial relationships. This mixture creates a more textured linguistic landscape that goes beyond a monolithic use of English.

2. Bilingualism and Code-Switching

  • Bilingual Context: India is a multilingual society, and Dattani captures this reality through code-switching. Characters occasionally switch to Hindi or Gujarati, reflecting their cultural identities and the contexts in which they find themselves. This practice enriches the dialogue, providing authenticity to the characters’ voices and highlighting their cultural roots.
  • Shifts in Language: The play features moments where characters’ speech patterns shift according to the emotional weight of the dialogue or the setting. Such shifts illustrate the complexity of identity and the internal conflicts characters face, moving beyond a homogenized form of English.

3. Themes of Identity and Alienation

  • Struggle for Identity: The use of a polished form of English can also be interpreted as a means of navigating identity and self-perception. Characters like Tara grapple with societal expectations and personal aspirations, and their language choices reflect their attempts to assert themselves within a specific cultural framework.
  • Alienation: While the characters’ use of English may initially suggest a homogenization, it can also point to their alienation from traditional cultural values. Tara, for instance, faces the pressures of societal expectations regarding gender and identity, and her use of English reflects both her aspirations and her disconnection from her roots.

4. Emotional Resonance

  • Expressive Potential: Dattani’s use of English in Tara allows for a range of emotional expression that resonates with contemporary audiences. The language serves as a vehicle for exploring complex themes, such as gender discrimination, family dynamics, and personal sacrifice. Through their dialogue, characters articulate their struggles and desires, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
  • Contrasting Voices: While many characters may share a similar linguistic style, their voices are distinct in terms of tone, context, and emotional depth. This distinction is critical in conveying individual character arcs and the play’s overarching themes.

5. Audience Engagement

  • Relatability: Dattani’s choice of English, particularly the polished variant often associated with Convent schools, makes the play accessible to a broader audience, including those familiar with Western literary traditions. This accessibility allows the themes to resonate more deeply with both Indian and global audiences, facilitating discussions around social issues in a contemporary context.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to view all characters in Tara as speaking the same homogenized Convent English, a closer examination reveals the complexities of Dattani’s linguistic choices. His use of English reflects not only the characters’ social backgrounds and aspirations but also the intricate dynamics of identity, culture, and emotional expression. By incorporating elements of bilingualism, cultural references, and varied emotional tones, Dattani enriches the play’s dialogue, making it a compelling exploration of the human experience within the specific context of Indian society. Thus, rather than homogenization, the language in Tara serves to illuminate the diverse realities of its characters and the societal issues they navigate.

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