Trauma and Alienation in Post-Colonial Contexts: Analyzing Saadat Hasan Manto's Depiction of Psychological Deterioration

Abstract

This study aims to explore the manifestation of traumatic psychology in Sadat Hassan Manto’s stories "Toba Tek Singh" and "Naya Qanoon," analyzing how societal structures contribute to emotional turmoil in characters. The acceptability of trauma in postcolonial literature is a complex issue. Manto’s works, known for their realistic portrayal and societal critiques, are often examined through a postcolonial lens, reflecting the harsh realities of colonial subjugation. Manto’s personal experiences and blunt style make his narratives a fertile ground for studying trauma and alienation. The study applies Frantz Fanon’s framework of psychological trauma within the postcolonial context to Manto’s stories. By examining the characters’ struggles for emotional harmony amidst a disintegrated world, the researcher identifies how societal pressures contribute to their traumatic experiences. The analysis reveals that trauma and alienation in Manto’s characters are deeply rooted in societal structures, aligning with Fanon’s theories on psychological trauma. Further research could explore additional works by Manto or other postcolonial authors to deepen the understanding of trauma’s role in literature and its reflection of societal pressures.