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VOL. 2, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Humour and irony as tools of social critique and self-preservation in Shobha de’s fictional oeuvre
Authors
Amit Kailas Bhusare
Abstract
The present research paper is an endeavor to
examine Shobha De’s use of humour and irony in her fictional works. The paper
argues that these works are not only for entertainment, but also tools for
social critique and self-preservation. Her characters use witty and ironic
dialogue to challenge discriminatory norms and values prevalent in contemporary
society. De’s works target issues like the dominance of patriarchy in the
marriage system, complicated gender roles, and shallow social rituals that
suppress women. This indirect method of criticism allows them to give voice to
criticism safely without any social conflict. It helps her to protect their
emotional well-being and dignity in the social milieu. The paper shows the
creation of a safe space for rebellion through humour. It allows her characters
to question oppressive power structures without direct confrontation with the
social structure. Thus, De’s fictional oeuvre is an epitome of laughter as a
medium for coping with and criticizing society.
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Pages:28-29
How to cite this article:
Amit Kailas Bhusare "Humour and irony as tools of social critique and self-preservation in Shobha de’s fictional oeuvre". International Journal of Advanced Education
, Vol 2, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 28-29
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