Optimism in Postmodern Fiction: A Psychological Study of Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West through Martin Seligman's Hope Circuit Theory

Abstract

The present study investigates the nuanced portrayal of optimism in Mohsin Hamid's novel "Exit West" by employing Hope Circuit Theory by Martin Seligman. Seligman's theory is situated within the paradigm of positive psychology, dissects the cognitive components of optimism, emphasizing personalization, permanence, and pervasiveness. This research used a descriptive qualitative approach to highlight the characteristics of optimism in Saeed and Nadia's characters, respectively. The textual analysis method has been used to give a thorough comprehension of the character's level of optimism about life. The results of this study provide insights into the subtleties of the perspectives of the characters as well as how literature may be used as a tool for investigating and comprehending psychological ideas. The study also adds to the larger conversation about how literature and positive psychology intersect by offering a sophisticated analysis of the ways in which narratives can reflect and expand our understanding of intricate psychological characteristics like optimism.