The Interplay Between Man and Nature : An Ecocritical Analysis of Amitav Ghosh's 'The Hungry Tides'

Abstract

The natural environment is vital to human survival. Two concepts that have grown in significance in today's world are ecology and ecocriticism. In literary sphere, approach of Ecocriticism focuses on environmental issues and criticizes human domination over animals and nature. Amitav Ghosh's 'The Hungry Tides is a literary masterpiece that explores the delicate relationship between humans and their natural environment, particularly in the context of the Sundarbans, a unique and ecologically fragile region. The novel sensitizes the reader to the need to strive for peaceful coexistence between humans and nature. This research paper brings in forefront complex ecological issues like animal rights versus human rights, local people’s eviction and resettlement, government policy of The Tiger Project, and human survival in the endangered area of the Sundarbans. An attempt has been made to delve into the novel's portrayal of environmental consciousness, examining how the characters' interactions with the natural world reflect the evolving environmental awareness within contemporary literature. The novel delivers a resounding call for environmental consciousness. It prompts readers to reevaluate their relationship with nature and the urgency of ecological preservation.