Embodied Spaces: Architectural Elements as Symbols of Power and Identity in Partition-Era Historical Fiction

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the role of architectural elements in modern historical fiction, using Khadija Mastoor’s novel Aangan as a case study. It specifically focuses on how these elements symbolize the socio-political tensions and power struggles during the Partition era in South Asia. The Partition, a significant historical event, not only altered the physical landscape but also deeply affected individual and collective identities, leaving lasting psychological scars. By utilizing qualitative analysis grounded in Place Theory, this research examines how the author incorporates architectural motifs to reflect the complexities of power dynamics and identity formation amidst conflict. The findings indicate that architecture serves as a critical lens through which to understand the intertwined relationships between space, trauma, and identity, revealing how physical environments embody the struggles and resilience of affected communities. Based on these insights, future research should further explore the interplay between narrative forms and built environments, advocating for a deeper integration of architectural analysis in literary studies to enhance our understanding of historical events and their impacts on human experiences.