ENDURANCE OF THE SUBALTERN: A STUDY OF A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS BY KHALID HOSSEINI

Purpose of the study: The present research aims to explore the oppressed and marginalized Afghan women who are made subaltern socially and religiously. It further reveals the ability of women to endure the violence and to create the vision of women empowerment through their suppressed bodies. Methodology: The primary data of research relies upon the text of A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khalid Hosseini (2007). Further, it has also been collected from secondary sources like articles and reviews mentioned in the reference list. The selected text is analyzed under the theoretical framework of the theory of subaltern by Spivak (1988), utilizing the content analysis. Main findings: The study dismantles the struggles of marginalized women for their survival and to free them from the suffocating chains of repression and violence. Nana, Mariam, and Laila being the subaltern know the word ‘Endurance’ while living in dilapidated social conditions. They show the degree of resistance and then also unite to stand against societal prominence. Mariam- the harami, sacrifices her life for Laila and Laila becomes the voice of her coming generation who can challenge the subaltern attitude and will speak loudly. Application of this study: Utilizing the theory of subaltern by Spivak, this research answers the question “Can the subaltern speak?” as ‘Yes’. It brings a message if the subaltern group combines and stands against the unjust norms, they will no more remain a subaltern and will be applicable for academicians and researchers as well. Novelty/Originality of this study: The study is distinctive because it explores the literature that portrays the stories of almost every home and corner of the world. Despite passing phases of woman's rights, the female gender is still being suppressed. It also unveils how gender inequality, poor and gender-biased educational systems, the justice system, and constrained or child marriages are being practised.