AN ANALYSIS OF THE VARIOUS DIMENSIONS OF CONFLICT IN THE NOVEL “THE MISTRESS OF SPICES” FOCUSING ON THE CONFLICTING CHARACTERS

Abstract

"Conflict serves as the inception of consciousness," said the renowned psychotherapist M. Esther Harding, who authored the book "Women's Mysteries." Conflict is an unavoidable aspect of life, but it may also serve as a valuable chance for acquiring knowledge, gaining expertise, and gaining a deeper understanding. Conflict shapes and delineates individuals' lives, personalities, self-perceptions, and restless state of mind. This study examines the sense of struggle, a prominent thematic strategy in Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel The Mistress of Spices (1997). Divakaruni skillfully combines the enchantment of spices with the many elements of struggle in her first novel. The bulk of characters in the story, including the protagonist Tilottama, commonly referred to as Tilo, experience various forms of conflict and hardship in their lives. Divakaruni delves into the intricate and complex experiences of Indian immigrants, examining their struggles, dilemmas, conflicts, crises, antagonisms, and frustrations. Conflict is an essential element of the narrative structure since the protagonist must face and overcome it to develop their awareness. The characters, therefore, encounter conflict either overtly or covertly.