Nawabdin the Electrician: A Critical Discourse Analysis

Author : ZAFAR ALI

Abstract :This paper delves into the complex gender dynamics present in Daniyal Mueenuddin's short story Nawabdin the Electrician, part of his acclaimed collection In Other Rooms, Other Wonders. The story follows Nawab, an electrician in rural Pakistan, and through his character, Mueenuddin subtly yet powerfully critiques the entrenched gender norms and expectations that shape individual lives within Pakistani society. By focusing on Nawab's relationships, actions, and motivations, this analysis uncovers how the story comments on masculinity, social power, and the implicit marginalization of women in Nawab's world. The story explores how societal expectations shape gender roles, particularly focusing on men as providers and protectors. Nawab's identity and self-worth are tied to his role as a breadwinner, highlighting the pressure to fulfill traditional masculine ideals. This theme reflects the restrictive norms of masculinity within a patriarchal society. Additionally, Nawab's interactions with women—especially in his family—reveal the limited roles women hold, as they are confined to domestic spaces and influenced by the male figures who control economic and social power. Through Nawab’s story, Mueenuddin examines the complex dynamics of gender and authority in rural Pakistan. In through Nawab's Interactions with His Family, Daniyal Mueenuddin explores the impact of traditional gender roles, portraying how these roles perpetuate gender inequality by reinforcing women's dependence on men and limiting their agency. The analysis underscores how Nawab, as a product of societal norms, embodies a broader narrative of survival within a patriarchal framework. Mueenuddin's story highlights the ways entrenched gender expectations shape lives, fostering inequalities that uphold existing power structures. By delving into Nawab's character and his world, Mueenuddin subtly critiques patriarchy, offering a powerful reflection on gender, power, and resilience.Gender issues are a significant focus within Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), drawing attention due to factors like the global rise in women's population, education, economic empowerment, and awareness of social marginalization. This shift is reflected in language, which often portrays gender-based conflicts. Literature, seen as a reflection of society, is an essential field for CDA research, as it offers insights into how language reinforces or challenges social issues. This study, by analyzing a key piece of Pakistani literature, explores how language can be used manipulatively to hinder women’s progress, aligning with CDA's goal of uncovering social inequalities embedded in discourse.

Keywords :Gender issues, Critical Discourse Analysis, Power, Patriarchy.

Conference Name :International Conference on American Literature and Gender Studies (ICALGS-25)

Conference Place Darwin, Australia

Conference Date 13th Jan 2025