Assignment 102 : Examining Surveillance in Stories - From Fantasy Poems to Modern Web Series

 This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 102 - Literature of the Neo-classical Period, Sem - 1, 2023.

Examining Surveillance in Stories - From Fantasy Poems to Modern Web Series

Table of Contents:-

• Personal Information
• Assignment Details
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Introduction
• Surveillance and the Panopticon in The Rape of the Lock
• The Family Man:A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis of Surveillance and Governmentality
• Surveillance in Shaan's Story
• Rethinking Surveillance: Moving Beyond Orwell and Foucault
• Conclusion
• References

Personal Information:-

Name:- Dhatri Parmar

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment Number:- 5108230032

E-mail Address:-dhatriparmar291@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 7

Assignment Details:-

Topic:-Examining Surveillance in Stories - From Fantasy Poems to Modern Web Series

Paper & subject code:- 102 - Literature of the Neo-classical Period & 22393

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract : 

This paper examines representations of surveillance across literature and television through a philosophical lens informed by theorist Michel Foucault. It analyzes surveillance as a form of knowledge gathering tied to power, social control, and normalization of behavior. Texts explored include Alexander Pope’s 1712 mock-epic fantasy poem “The Rape of the Lock” featuring tiny fairy spies, and contemporary Indian political web series like The Family Man about counterterrorism agents. When we look at these different stories, even though they're from different kinds of books or movies, we can learn a lot about how people watch each other and how that affects things like gender roles and how much privacy we have. Surveillance across security, community, and art can isolate people, reduce accountability, and normalize judgment. This constant watching often benefits powerful groups while disadvantage vulnerable ones, as Foucault suggested. However, promoting compassion instead of judgment might challenge this surveillance-driven hierarchy.

Keywords : Surveillance,Power relations, Television dramas, Magical realism, Hierarchy

Introduction : 

Surveillance is when some person or group watches others very closely. They might spy on or monitor people to get information and make sure they are following expected rules. Today cameras, computer data, spies and other methods let governments and powerful organizations see into private lives.

Foucault – Surveillance and Control : 

The French philosopher Michel Foucault studied how surveillance is a type of power and control used by authorities that shapes society in many unseen ways. He said watching people constantly makes them guarded, pressured to act "normal", and easier to manipulate because it feels like they are always being judged(Foucault #). Foucault thought modern life forces people to conform because surveillance is embedded everywhere by design to influence our behavior. This paper looks at imaginative stories depicting different types of surveillance to see how it gives some groups power over others.(Faubion)

Surveillance and the Panopticon in The Rape of the Lock : 

In British writer Alexander Pope's famous 1712 poem “The Rape of the Lock”, tiny fairy creatures called “sylphs” sneak around wealthy homes gossiping about the humans. These fake magic beings spy on the latest fashions, scandals, and romances of stylish ladies and gentlemen in 1700s England for fun. Through fantasy, Pope cleverly uses the silly spying sprites to dramatize real cultural judgment of elites at that time.(Mahida)

The sylphs represent churches, families and neighbors watching upper class manners extremely closely. In The Rape of the Lock, Alexander Pope employs the sylphs, benevolent spirits who are invisible to the human eye, as a metaphorical representation of surveillance. The sylphs' constant monitoring of Belinda's every move and their ability to see into her heart reflect the panoptic gaze, a concept developed by Michel Foucault to describe a system of social control in which individuals are constantly aware that they are being watched, even if they cannot see the watcher.

The sylphs' surveillance of Belinda is initially portrayed as benevolent and protective. They warn her of impending danger, guide her away from temptation, and strive to maintain her virtue. However, as the poem progresses, the sylphs' presence becomes more intrusive and controlling. They begin to dictate Belinda's every action, limiting her freedom and autonomy.

This shift in the sylphs' behavior reflects Foucault's notion of the panopticon as a double-edged sword. While it can be used to enforce norms and maintain order, it can also be used to control and manipulate individuals. The sylphs' excessive surveillance of Belinda ultimately leads to her humiliation and downfall, suggesting that surveillance, even when well-intentioned, can have negative consequences.

Their constant monitoring of Belinda's every move, their ability to see into her heart, and their efforts to control her behavior all reflect the panoptic gaze, a system of social control that has become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society.

The Family Man: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis of Surveillance and Governmentality : 

Srikant Tiwari is a middle-class man who also serves as a world-class spy; he tries to balance his familial responsibilities with those at the highly secretive special cell of the National Intelligence Agency.'The Family Man' is an edgy action-drama series which tells the story of a middle-class man who works for a special cell of the National Investigation Agency. While he tries to protect the nation from terrorists, he also must protect his family from the impact of his secretive, high-pressure, and low-paying job.

The modern Indian streaming show The Family Man is about undercover agent Srikant secretly tracking dangerous militant radicals but hiding this from his loving family. Unlike playful fantasy sprites, this 2019 series tackles serious issues about state intelligence groups spying on citizens and enemies for national security purposes.

Srikant risks even his innocent children’s lives to catch extremists plotting attacks in Indian cities.

He symbolizes a common modern anxiety about covert government surveillance invading privacy for questionable goals. It breeds isolation, suspicion and divides communities through unseen monitoring systems. Michel Foucault would call fictional intelligence personnel like Srikant "governmentality" agents. This means that they bring the powerful influence of the government into everyday life by closely monitoring certain groups of people without being held accountable for their actions. This makes people conform out of fear of being accused wrongly.

Surveillance in Shaan's Story : The Night Manager:

Surveillance lays a significant role in Shaan's story, particularly in the context of Michel Foucault's work on surveillance and governmentality.In Shaan's case, he is constantly being watched by both the Indian intelligence agency, RAW, and the illegal arms dealer, Shelly Rungta.RAW, represented by Lipika Saikia Rao, is interested in using Shaan to gather information on Shelly's illegal activities. Lipika initially approaches Shaan for his help in protecting Safina Kidwai, a young girl who has evidence of Shelly's crimes. However, Lipika's primary motive is to use Shaan as a pawn in her efforts to bring Shelly down.

Shelly, on the other hand, is using surveillance to maintain control over his empire. He has Freddie Rehman, the owner of the star hotel, spy on Shaan, and he also has Shaan's phone bugged. This constant surveillance allows Shelly to stay one step ahead of his enemies and to protect his interests.Foucault's concept of governmentality is also evident in Shaan's story. Governmentality refers to the ways in which governments exercise power over their citizens. In Shaan's case, he is caught in a web of governmentality, as he is being manipulated by both RAW and Shelly.

Shaan, however, is not simply a passive pawn in this game of surveillance. He is also using surveillance to his own advantage. He collects information on Shelly from the trash in his room and mails it to Lipika. He also uses his knowledge of Shelly's weaknesses to gain his trust and infiltrate his organization.Shaan's story ultimately highlights the dangers of surveillance. As Foucault argued, surveillance can be used to control and manipulate individuals, and it can also lead to tragic consequences. In Shaan's case, his failure to protect Safina from Freddie and Shelly is a direct result of the constant surveillance he is under.

Rethinking Surveillance: Moving Beyond Orwell and Foucault : 

George Orwell's novel "1984" paints a frightening picture of a future where the government watches everyone all the time. The government uses "telescreens" and "thought police" to make sure that everyone obeys the rules.On the other hand, Michel Foucault, a French philosopher, saw surveillance as a way for people to control themselves. He believed that people are not just watched by the government, but also by each other. People are constantly judging each other and making sure that everyone follows the rules.Both Orwell and Foucault's ideas are important for understanding surveillance in the digital age.

 However, their ideas do not fully capture the complexities of surveillance today.In the digital age, surveillance is not just about the government. Businesses and other organizations also collect a lot of information about us. We are also constantly giving out our information online, through social media, online shopping, and other activities.This means that we need to think about surveillance in new ways. We need to understand how our information is being collected, used, and shared. We also need to think about the implications of surveillance for our privacy and our freedom.By developing a more nuanced understanding of surveillance, we can engage in informed discussions about its impact on our lives. We can also work to protect our privacy and our freedom in the digital age.(P. Hier)

Conclusion : 

When we compare stories about sylphs creatures, government spies, and secret agents from big companies, we find a surprising similarity: they all deal with problems linked to watching others too closely. Even though these stories are not real, they show how keeping an eye on people can cause issues.

Watching too much without permission makes everyone feel suspicious and scared. Foucault says we should realize that surveillance, especially when it sneaks into private parts of life, usually helps powerful groups control everyone else, limiting our freedoms and responsibility. These stories warn us to be careful because even imaginary inspectors sometimes use reasons like keeping the peace to justify being too strict or causing harm. Moving forward means being kind and finding a balance between rules and keeping people safe. It's about making sure that both the watchers and the ones being watched feel secure and treated fairly, by focusing on doing what's right rather than having too much power to control others.

References: 

Faubion, James. “Michel Foucault | French Philosopher, Historian & Social Theorist.” Britannica, 14 November 2023, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michel-Foucault. Accessed 23 November 2023.

Foucault, Michel. Discipline and punish. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 1995.

Mahida, Dr. Beena A. “The Use of Supernatural Machinery in “The Rape of the Lock.”” Golden Research Thoughts, http://oldgrt.lbp.world/UploadedData/706.pdf. Accessed 23 November 2023.

Modi, Sandeep, creator. The Night Manager. Banijay Asia The Ink Factory, 2023.

Nidimoru, Raj, and Krishna D.K., creators. The Family Man. D2R Films, 2019.

P. Hier, Sean. “View of Probing the Surveillant Assemblage: on the dialectics of surveillance practices as processes of social control.” Surveillance & Society, https://ojs.library.queensu.ca/index.php/surveillance-and-society/article/view/3347/3309. Accessed 23 November 2023.

Pope, Alexander. The Rape of the Lock. Edited by Elizabeth Gurr, Oxford University Press, 2007.

Words : 1830

Image : 3

Assignment 104 : Servants of Destiny: Exploring the Impact of Maids on Fate in Literature through a Marxist Lens

 This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 104 - Literature of Victorians, Sem - 1, 2023.

Servants of Destiny: Exploring the Impact of Maids on Fate in Literature through a Marxist Lens

Table of Contents:-

• Personal Information
• Assignment Details
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Introduction
• The Social Implications of Miss Prism's Mix-up in "The Importance of Being Earnest"
• The Maid's Rebellion: A Symbol of Inequality in Post-Colonial India
• Conclusion
• References

Personal Information:-

Name:- Dhatri Parmar

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment Number:- 5108230032

E-mail Address:-dhatriparmar291@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 7

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- Servants of Destiny: Exploring the Impact of Maids on Fate in Literature through a Marxist Lens

Paper & subject code:-104 - Literature of the Victorians & 22395

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract : 

This paper looks at how maids and servants in famous books impact the main characters and society. It uses ideas from Marx about social class struggles. Two servants are compared - Miss Prism from the comedy play “The Importance of Being Earnest” and Mary Pereira from Salman Rushdie’s magical realist novel “Midnight’s Children.” Though these two ladies are very different, they both make key mistakes that shape the life journeys of their wealthy masters. Deeper analysis shows these servant characters actually highlight tensions between upper and lower social classes. The things they do wrong on accident or on purpose manage to put rich families’ money and power at risk. But in the end, the rich families stay in charge and order is restored. These two stories show how much influence domestic servants have over powerful groups because they work so closely raising their children. However, the servants stay trapped in their lower status. So they reveal authors’ views about wealth gaps and class differences affecting personal identities as well as national political issues.

Keywords:  Social classes, Domestic workers and maids, Identity, Fate

Introduction : 

Maids, nannies, housekeepers and other domestic workers are everywhere in books, plays and movies. They cook and clean in the background of rich people’s homes. These characters often seem minor, even silly. But when we look deeper, they actually have a huge impact on the main characters they serve. As Encyclopedia Britannica mentioned  Marxism is a social, political, and economic philosophy that originated in the mid-19th century with the work of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It is a critique of capitalism and advocates for a classless society in which the means of production are owned and controlled by the workers.  Marxism developed in response to the social, political, and economic conditions of the time.

 Marx and Engels were both socialists who were critical of the excesses of capitalism, which they saw as leading to exploitation, inequality, and social unrest.The central idea of Marxism is that history is driven by class struggle. Marx believed that there are two main classes in society: the bourgeoisie (capitalists) and the proletariat (workers). The bourgeoisie owns the means of production and exploits the proletariat in order to generate profit. This exploitation leads to class conflict, which Marx believed would eventually lead to a socialist revolution. (“Marxism - Class, Capitalism, Dialectic”)

At first glance, Miss Prism and Mary Pereira appear to have little in common. Miss Prism is a clumsy, forgetful nanny in Victorian England, while Mary Pareira is a mysterious maid in post-colonial India. However, Marxist thinking reveals that both characters are caught in class struggles that shape the fates of those around them.

The Social Implications of Miss Prism's Mix-up in "The Importance of Being Earnest" : 

In Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest," the character of Miss Prism plays a pivotal role in resolving the play's central conflict. Through her accidental mix-up of a baby and a book manuscript, Miss Prism sets the stage for the comedic revelation of Jack's true identity and his subsequent acceptance into the upper class. However, beneath the surface of the play's lighthearted dialogue lies a deeper commentary on the social and economic realities of Victorian England, particularly the rigid class structure and the anxieties of the upper class about their status and power.

Miss Prism's mix-up, initially presented as a humorous blunder, takes on a more significant meaning when viewed through her position. As a governess, Miss Prism occupies a liminal position between the working class and the upper class. She is not a member of the working class, but she also does not possess the wealth and privilege of the upper class. This ambiguous social standing aligns with Miss Prism's aspirations for upward mobility, a common desire among individuals in her position during Victorian England.

Miss Prism's declaration, "I can be trusted. You should marry me," can be interpreted as a reflection of her desire to improve her social standing. While the statement may appear to be a romantic overture, it also suggests Miss Prism's belief that marriage with Mr.Chasuble  is a pathway to social advancement. This belief was prevalent among women of her time, who often sought marriage as a means of securing financial stability and social elevation.

By revealing Jack's true identity as the lost baby, Miss Prism not only restores order to the upper-class family but also secures Jack's place within that social circle acceptable for Lady Brecknell. This resolution reinforces the power dynamics of Victorian society, where the upper class maintains control over the working class and their destinies.

Miss Prism's actions, though seemingly frivolous, can be justified through a class struggle. Her desire for upward mobility and her belief in marriage as a means of social advancement are understandable given the societal expectations of women in Victorian England. Her mix-up, while unintentional, ultimately serves to reinforce the power dynamics of the time, placing Jack firmly within the upper class and reaffirming the existing social hierarchy.

As Marion Amies argued that wealthy people in the late 1800s were concerned about losing their status and wealth due to social changes and the influence of servants.(Amies) Miss Prism's careless mistake could have disrupted the family legacy and deprived them of their inheritance.Miss Prism is eventually forgiven and helped by the upper-class characters, demonstrating their dependence on the wealthy. The play's humorous tone masks a deeper message about the significance of preserving social order and the upper class's power.

The Maid's Rebellion: A Symbol of Inequality in Post-Colonial India : 

In Salman Rushdie's magical realist masterpiece, "Midnight's Children," Mary Pereira, a humble maid, emerges as a complex and enigmatic figure, her life intricately intertwined with the protagonist, Saleem Sinai. Driven by a misguided sense of social justice, Mary commits an act that alters the course of Saleem's life forever – she switches him at birth with Shiva, the son of her wealthy employers. This act, rooted in a deep-seated resentment against the stark inequalities of post-colonial India, sets in motion a chain of events that profoundly shapes Saleem's identity and experiences.

Mary's decision to switch the babies is not merely a careless mistake; it is a deliberate act of rebellion against the unjust social order she inhabits. On the eve of India's independence, as the nation celebrates its liberation from British rule, Mary witnesses firsthand the persistence of class divisions. She recognizes that the promise of freedom has not extended to the underprivileged masses, who remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and marginalization. Her act of switching the babies is a desperate attempt to disrupt the perpetuation of privilege and inequality.

Mary's maternal connection to Saleem develops over time, and she comes to love him as her own son. Despite her initial intentions, she acknowledges the gravity of her actions and dedicates herself to making amends. She becomes Saleem's ayah, his surrogate mother, providing him with the love and care he craves. This maternal bond transcends their social boundaries, highlighting the power of love to bridge the gap between classes.

Throughout the novel, Mary's presence in Saleem's life serves as a constant reminder of the class struggle that continues to plague India. Her guilt over her actions weighs heavily on her, and she struggles to reconcile her desire for social justice with the unintended consequences of her act. Her story mirrors the broader narrative of post-colonial India, a nation grappling with the challenges of forging a new identity amidst the remnants of a deeply entrenched class system.

In the end, Mary's fate becomes intertwined with Saleem's once again. Saleem, now an adult, seeks her out and brings her to live with him. This reunion signifies the enduring connection between the two, despite the complexities of their relationship. Saleem's introduction of Mary to his son as his "mamma" further underscores the depth of their bond, acknowledging Mary's role as a maternal figure in his life.

Mary Pereira's character stands as a poignant representation of the class struggle in post-colonial India. Her actions, driven by a desire for social justice, have unintended consequences that reverberate throughout Saleem's life. Yet, amidst the complexities of their relationship, a deep maternal bond emerges, transcending social barriers and highlighting the enduring power of love. Mary's story serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of individuals in a society grappling with the challenges of inequality and the pursuit of true freedom.

Conclusion : 

Even though main characters like Saleem get the most attention in famous books, low status servants behind the scenes often quietly change everything. Miss Prism with her silly baby mix-up and Mary Pereira pulling off an intentional switch at midnight birth seem very different. But using Marx’s ideas about layered social class tensions shows that both maids invisibly shift balances of power, opportunity, belonging through the choices they make influencing the next generation.Inside their posh employer homes, these ladies - one bumbling, one bitter - take actions revealing injustice and inequality for the ignored lower economic groups. 

Their brief intrusions into protected wealth spotlight ongoing unfair realities linked back historically to things like English industrialization or Indian colonialism. But in the end, despite revealing hard truths, both beloved stories protect comforting status, silence maid voices again. The rich families simply carry on stronger once disruptions pass. Everything falls back in place according to old rules. So Marx would say these famous tales mirror larger cycles where the working class drives change and gets blamed but the elite class keeps reaping rewards. Still, memorable maids like Miss Prism and Mary symbolize unsettled social forces rumbling beneath, demanding that signposts up ahead include fairer detours so more people arrive safely someday.

References : 

Amies, Marion. “The Victorian Governess and Colonial Ideals of Womanhood Marion Amies Victorian Studies, Vol. 31, No. 4 (Summer, 1988), pp. 537-565 (29 pages) https://www.jstor.org/stable/3827856.” Jstor, 16 June 2023, Accessed 22 November 2023.

“Marxism - Class, Capitalism, Dialectic.” Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Marxism/Analysis-of-society. Accessed 22 November 2023.

Rushdie, Salman. Midnight's Children. Avon, 1982.

Sharp, Kaity, and Hannah Laflin. “The Saleem and Shiva Principle in Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children | Synaptic.” Central College, 21 May 2019, https://central.edu/writing-anthology/2019/05/21/the-saleem-and-shiva-principle-in-rushdies-midnights-children/. Accessed 22 November 2023.

Wilde, Oscar. The Importance of Being Earnest. MAPLE PRESS PVT Limited, 2019.

Words : 1835

Assignment 105 : Unearthing Forbidden Knowledge: A Comparative Exploration of 'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus'

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to 1900, Sem - 1, 2023.

 Unearthing Forbidden Knowledge: A Comparative Exploration of 'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus'

Table of Contents:-

• Personal Information
• Assignment Details
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Introduction
• Temptation of Forbidden  Knowledge in "Tumbbad”
• Temptation of Forbidden  Knowledge in “Doctor Faustus”
• Navigating Forbidden Realms: The Hazards of Crossing Boundaries
• The Psychological Impact of Seeking Power Beyond Human Limitations
• Conclusion
• References

Personal Information:-

• Name:- Dhatri Parmar
• Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)
• Enrollment Number:- 5108230032
• E-mail Address:-dhatriparmar291@gmail.com
• Roll Number:- 7

Assignment Details:-

• Topic:-Unearthing Forbidden Knowledge: A Comparative Exploration of 'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus
• Paper & subject code:- 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to
• 1900 & 22396
• Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,
• Bhavnagar
• Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract : 

This paper explores the themes of ambition, transgression, and the psychological impact of seeking forbidden knowledge through a comparative analysis of the films 'Tumbbad' (2018) and 'Doctor Faustus' (1592). Both works show how tempting it is to seek forbidden knowledge because it offers things like power, wealth, and the ability to surpass our limits. But going after this knowledge usually has serious consequences, leading to a series of terrible events, moral decline, and ultimately, a very bad outcome.'Tumbbad' and 'Doctor Faustus' tell stories that warn us about the risks of wanting to know too much, reminding us that human ambition has two sides and that there's a fine line between what we know and what could harm us if we try to know too much.

Keywords : 

Forbidden Knowledge, Ambition, Temptation, Tumbbad, Doctor Faustus

Introduction : 

The human pursuit of knowledge has always been a double-edged sword, offering both enlightenment and destruction. In literature, the pursuit of knowledge mirrors a coin's two sides: one brings growth and understanding, as seen in 'Frankenstein,' yet the other side reveals risks and tragedy, exemplified by 'Macbeth.' These tales caution about the dual nature of seeking knowledge, highlighting its potential for enlightenment or ruin when ambition goes unchecked.Two fascinating stories, 'Tumbbad' (2018) and 'Doctor Faustus' (1592), both show how tempting and dangerous it can be to seek forbidden knowledge. This paper looks at these works side by side to explore ambition, the results of crossing boundaries, and the mental effects of wanting too much power.

Temptation of Forbidden  Knowledge in "Tumbbad”:

 "Tumbbad" is a critically acclaimed Indian fantasy horror film released in 2018, directed by Rahi Anil Barve.Vinayak, a young man from the film 'Tumbbad,' is driven by poverty and a desperate desire for wealth. This leads him to delve into the ancient folklore of the demon deity Hastar, a being associated with immense riches. The long, complicated story slowly comes out. A long time ago, the mother goddess had a greedy baby named Hastar. On account of his misappropriation of gold and food, the gods cursed him never to be worshiped.  

Vinayak brings mysterious gold coins with him. Looking to sell the coins, he enters into an ill-fated deal with Raghav, a friend, moneylender, and merchant who’s hoping to bribe his way into a profitable opium-dealing license. His journey into the forbidden realm of Hastar's temple mirrors the allure of forbidden knowledge. This temptation promises power, riches, and the ability to surpass human limitations. However, it also comes at a steep price.

Temptation of Forbidden  Knowledge in “Doctor Faustus” :

"Doctor Faustus" by Christopher Marlowe depicts a scholar's pact with the devil for knowledge, exploring moral dilemmas and consequences. In 'Doctor Faustus,'Faustus's quest for knowledge reaches its peak when he makes a pact, trading his soul for twenty-four years of indulgence, assisted by Mephistophilis.  Lily B. Campbell in her article ‘Doctor Faustus: A Case of Conscience’ said that Whether spurred by the devil's manipulation or Faustus's longing for knowledge and power, he forsakes God and delves into dark magic to quench his thirst for extraordinary understanding and authority.(Campbell)

In "Doctor Faustus," Faustus's unquenchable thirst for knowledge is vividly depicted through his continuous quest for more. His dissatisfaction with reality not meeting his lofty expectations becomes evident in the famous lines where he summons Helen of Troy, expressing disappointment at her appearance. Faustus muses,

"Was this the face that launch'd a thousand ships, And burnt the topless towers of Illium?"(Marlowe #)

 His famous lines, contemplating Helen of Troy, epitomize his disillusionment and longing for something greater than reality. When he conjures Helen, praising her beauty by recalling her role in igniting the Trojan War, Faustus highlights his yearning for transcendence beyond the limitations of his own existence.

This quest reflects Faustus's Faustian bargain, an agreement driven by his unquenchable thirst for knowledge and experience that surpasses human boundaries. His dissatisfaction with reality leads him to seek solace in the extraordinary, even if it means bargaining with darker forces. Faustus's constant search for more mirrors the human desire for the unknown, often resulting in a pursuit that transcends ethical or moral boundaries in the quest for enlightenment or fulfillment.

Navigating Forbidden Realms: The Hazards of Crossing Boundaries

According to Tasha Robinson, Tumbbad cleverly symbolizes how Vinayak's dreams drain away his freedom and joy, trapping him in a never-ending nightmare. His wealth comes with a heavy price, and he can't shake off the burden. He ends up resenting those around him who benefit from his wealth without enduring the same costs. Struggling to release his riches yet unable to find real happiness, Vinayak spirals into deeper and darker indulgences. It is evident in this lines.(Robinson)

“बंद दरवाजों के पीछे, धरती के गर्भ में क्या छिपा है? वह कौन सा रहस्य है जिसे पीढ़ियों ने गंभीरता से संरक्षित किया है? जब तुम्हें कभी वापस न लौटने की चेतावनी दी गई है तब भी तुम मुँह क्यों नहीं मोड़ सकते? सोने का लालच. लालच। एक राक्षस जिसे इस हद तक खाना खिलाना पड़ता है कि वापस लौटना संभव नहीं है।”

The true monster in the story of Tumbbad isn't solely the repulsive old woman or the tangible horrors she embodies through her actions. Instead, it's the inherent quality of  Vinayak amidst other crucial elements that lures the characters into a deceptive path, enticing them with the promise of prosperity while leading them towards ruin. Similar to Myth of Tithonus, a beautiful man who was chosen by goddess of Aurora, the goddess of dawn, as her lover. She granted him immortality but not youth. This leads to eternal suffering same as Vinayaka's grandmother and Vinayaka.

While in Doctor Faustus, Faustus becomes dissatisfied with traditional academic pursuits like logic, medicine, and law. He craves something more than natural philosophy can provide, declaring "A sound magician is a mighty god".(Marlowe #) This yearning leads him to sorcery, necromancy, and demonology - practices clearly forbidden and dangerous.

Despite the warnings of the Good Angel, Faustus proceeds with the forbidden ritual to conjure Mephistopheles. Mephistopheles says that,"Knowledge is power, and therefore all men crave for it."  (Marlowe #) Consequently,Faustus faces a big moral problem by seeking knowledge from the devil. He states that,"I have not lived in vain, and therefore I am not afraid of death." (Marlowe #) He chooses to trade his soul and do bad things to gain power. This main issue is what the entire play focuses on. It shows Faustus being willing to give up eternal happiness just for temporary power in the world. 

The Psychological Impact of Seeking Power Beyond Human Limitations :

“Tumbbad” shows how Vinayak's obsession is taking a toll on his mental health. The dark atmosphere, the strange images, and the unsettling sounds all help to show how Vinayak is going mad. Vinayak is now haunted by the monstrous creatures that are associated with Hastar. These creatures are a constant reminder of the bad things he has done and the bad things that will happen to him because of them.

Additionally, Vinayak's obsession with wealth and power has not only isolated him from society, but it has also made him a cruel and unfeeling person.In a tragic turn of events, Vinayak's obsession turns him into a monster. He now looks like the creatures he was trying to take advantage of. This change shows that Vinayak has lost all of his humanity and is now completely consumed by his desire for wealth and power.

Vinayak’s Gruesome punishment is highlighted by realistic VFX from Sean Wheelan and Filmgate Films in Sweden, which created the CG work and animated 3D characters, including the magnificent, hair-raising flayed devil. (Prasad and Chan)

Similarly, Faustus's pact with Mephistopheles leads to a profound sense of guilt, alienation, and a loss of his humanity. As the final hour of his life approaches, Faustus, bound by his pact with the devil, contemplates his inevitable descent into hell. In a moment of despair, he turns to God, acknowledging the transformative power of Christ's blood. Overwhelmed by his impending doom, Faustus yearns for the mountains to collapse upon him, wishing for the earth to swallow him whole. He desires an escape from the eternity of suffering that awaits him.

“Their souls are soon dissolv'd in elements;

But mine must live still to be plagu'd in hell.

Curs'd be the parents that engender'd me!

No, Faustus, curse thyself, curse Lucifer

That hath depriv'd thee of the joys of heaven.” (Marlowe #)

 In a desperate plea, Faustus wishes to be transformed into a soulless creature, exempt from the torment of hell and the rewards of heaven. As the clock strikes midnight, Faustus's final request, to be turned into air or droplets lost in the ocean, falls on deaf ears. He is dragged away to face his eternal punishment, having spent his final hour clinging to vain hopes of salvation. His story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of seeking power beyond human limitations and the importance of seeking redemption before it is too late.

Conclusion 

Examining "Tumbbad" and "Doctor Faustus" allows exploration of how diverse cultures and storytelling traditions address the Temptation of Knowledge, showcasing its moral complexities. Both stories emphasize the psychological effects of transgression, revealing the consequences of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power beyond human limits, leading to downfall, madness, and isolation. These narratives serve as compelling reminders of the fine line between human knowledge and the risks associated with delving into the unknown.

References :

Barve, Rahi Anil, director. Tumbbad. Eros International Sohum Shah Films Colour Yellow Productions Film i Väst Filmgate Films, 2018. (Barve)

Campbell, Lily B. “Doctor Faustus: A Case of Conscience.” JSTOR, 16 June 2023, https://doi.org/10.2307/460096. Accessed 20 November 2023.

Marlowe, Christopher. The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2017.

Prasad, Adesh, and Tim Chan. “'Tumbbad' Review – The Hollywood Reporter.” The Hollywood Reporter, 30 August 2018, https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/tumbbad-1137591/. Accessed 20 November 2023.

Robinson, Tasha. “The hit Indian horror Tumbbad is shocking in the best way.” Polygon, 30 

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