The Last Dung Cake. #delhiuniversity #englishliteratureinindia #englishliterature #ncweb

Summary

In this lecture, Dr. Sur Shahim discusses the short story 'The Last Dun Cake' by Josi Um Sanker, focusing on its depiction of rural Indian life during the pre-independence era. The story explores themes of patriarchy, women's rights, and the defiance of societal norms. Key characters, including the strong female protagonist Jibi and her revolutionary relationship with her mother-in-law, challenge traditional views on funerary rites, highlighting women's agency and independence. Through these characters' actions, the story critiques societal structures that suppress women's voices, ultimately calling for a rethinking of patriarchal traditions and the role of women in society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The title 'The Last Dun Cake' symbolizes a ritual practice associated with the funeral rites in pre-independent India, highlighting the importance of cultural and gendered rituals.
• 😀 The story critiques the objectification of women, particularly through the characters Himat and Venal, who evaluate Ji based on her appearance and work, reflecting a common social issue of that era.
• 😀 Ji, the protagonist, is portrayed as a strong and revolutionary female character who challenges patriarchal norms and defies the typical subjugation of women in society.
• 😀 The bond between Ji and her mother-in-law is an unusual one in the context of Indian society, where widows were often marginalized and ignored, yet here they share a deep, respectful relationship.
• 😀 Ji’s mother-in-law expresses concern over the societal rituals and customs, particularly the belief that the soul would be condemned to hell unless the last rites were performed by a man.
• 😀 The story underscores the theme of patriarchy, where women are restricted from performing important rituals, such as leading funerals, due to societal and cultural norms.
• 😀 The relationship between Ji and her mother-in-law serves as a symbol of the potential for women to live together harmoniously and challenge patriarchal structures when they are free from societal oppression.
• 😀 Ji promises to lead the funeral rites for her mother-in-law, despite knowing it will be a shocking and unconventional act in their society, thus defying cultural taboos.
• 😀 The story illustrates the tension between traditional gender roles and the desires of the characters to break free from them, with Ji and her mother-in-law asserting their independence.
• 😀 The character of Mambu represents a faith in humanity, showing that even within an unjust and rigid society, there exists the possibility of emotional connection, love, and respect in relationships, especially during loss.

Q & A

What does the term 'dun' refer to in the story 'The Last Dun Cake'?

In the story, 'dun' refers to a culturally specific term for the ritual performed by the chief male mourner at a funeral. The ritual involves lighting a fire to cremate the deceased, symbolizing the final rites.

Why is the title 'The Last Dun Cake' significant?

The title reflects the importance of the final ritual performed during a funeral. It also symbolizes the societal structures and expectations tied to death, particularly regarding the role of men in carrying out these rites.

How does the interaction between Himat, Ven, and Ji illustrate social issues?

The interaction between Himat, Ven, and Ji reveals the objectification of women, as the men discuss Ji in terms of her physical appearance and work. Ji’s response challenges this objectification, highlighting gender inequality and social norms.

What is the significance of Ji’s reaction to the men staring at her?

Ji’s reaction, where she angrily scolds the men and tells them to smile in front of their mothers, asserts her autonomy and rejects the objectification imposed by societal expectations of women. It marks her as a strong, independent character.

What is the nature of the bond between Ji and her mother-in-law?

Ji and her mother-in-law share a unique and affectionate bond that defies traditional expectations. Despite societal norms where widows were often marginalized, their relationship is marked by mutual respect, care, and support.

How does the story critique patriarchal norms related to funerals?

The story critiques patriarchal norms by challenging the belief that only men can perform funeral rites. Ji and her mother-in-law reject this idea, showing that women too can carry out these rituals, symbolizing their right to autonomy and equality.

How does the old mother-in-law view Ji's role in her funeral?

The old mother-in-law expresses a wish that Ji perform her funeral rites by lighting the dun herself, rejecting the idea that a man must do it for her soul to rest in peace. This request symbolizes a challenge to traditional gender roles and an assertion of women’s agency.

What role does the character Mambu play in the story?

Mambu, the son of Ven, represents the emotional connection between individuals despite societal norms. His character introduces themes of love, humanity, and the impact of personal relationships, especially during times of loss.

What is the message the author conveys through the relationship between Ji and her mother-in-law?

Through the relationship between Ji and her mother-in-law, the author conveys the message that women, when free from the constraints of patriarchal society, can form powerful, supportive relationships that transcend traditional gender roles and challenge societal expectations.

How does the story reflect the position of women in pre-independent Indian society?

The story reflects the position of women in pre-independent India by highlighting the suppression of their voices and autonomy. It critiques societal norms that confined women to certain roles, especially in matters of family and rituals, while portraying women like Ji and her mother-in-law as individuals who challenge and break free from these limitations.