TARA | MAHESH DATTANI | MEG 7 | INDIAN ENGLISH LITERATURE | BLOCK 8 | L4 #english #meg #play

Introduction

This tutorial provides a structured overview of the play "Tara" by Mahesh Dattani, as discussed in the video from Phrenic Anatomy. It is designed for students of Indian English literature, particularly those studying for the MEG program. This guide will help you understand the key themes, characters, and literary significance of the play.

Step 1: Understanding the Plot

• Synopsis: "Tara" revolves around the complex relationship between a brother and sister, dealing with issues of gender discrimination and the implications of societal expectations.
• Key Events:
  • The story is centered around the lives of Tara and her brother, who face challenges stemming from their family's preference for the male child.
  • Explore how Tara's aspirations and struggles reflect broader societal themes.

Step 2: Analyzing Characters

• Tara:
  • The protagonist who fights against the constraints placed on her due to her gender.
  • Analyze her character development throughout the play.
• Chandan:
  • Tara’s brother who grapples with his own identity and societal expectations.
  • Discuss his role in juxtaposition to Tara’s experiences.
• Parents:
  • Their attitudes towards Tara and Chandan significantly influence the siblings' lives.
  • Highlight their impact on the central themes of the play.

Step 3: Exploring Themes

• Gender Discrimination:
  • Examine how the play illustrates societal biases against women.
  • Consider Tara’s struggles as a commentary on these issues.
• Identity and Self-Discovery:
  • Discuss how each character's journey reflects their search for identity.
  • Analyze the conflicts that arise from familial expectations.
• Parental Influence:
  • Investigate the effects of parental favoritism on the siblings’ relationship.
  • Reflect on how this theme resonates in contemporary society.

Step 4: Literary Techniques

• Symbolism:
  • Identify key symbols in the play, such as the significance of Tara's name and its implications.
• Dialogue:
  • Analyze how Dattani's use of dialogue reveals character dynamics and conflicts.
• Structure:
  • Discuss the play's structure and how it contributes to its overall impact.

Step 5: Critical Reception

• Impact on Indian Theatre:
  • Explore how "Tara" has been received in the context of Indian drama.
  • Discuss its relevance in discussions about gender and society.
• Scholarly Perspectives:
  • Look into critiques and analyses by scholars that highlight the play’s significance.

Conclusion

Understanding "Tara" by Mahesh Dattani provides valuable insights into gender issues and societal norms in contemporary India. By analyzing the characters, themes, and literary techniques, you can appreciate the depth of the play and its relevance to ongoing discussions around identity and discrimination. For further study, consider engaging with additional resources and discussions on Indian writing in English, as well as exploring other works by Dattani.