Women's Oppression in Society in Mrs Dalloway and Buddha of Suburbia

The theme of women's oppression in society has been a pervasive issue throughout history and continues to be relevant today. This essay will explore the representation of this theme in two novels: "Mrs Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf and "Buddha of Suburbia" by Hanif Kureishi. Both novels offer insight into the challenges faced by women in society and the impact of societal expectations on their lives.

In "Mrs Dalloway," Woolf portrays the struggles of women in the early 20th century. The novel takes place over the course of a single day in London, and through the character of Clarissa Dalloway, Woolf examines the societal pressures faced by women. Clarissa is a middle-aged woman who is married to a politician and is expected to fulfill the role of a perfect hostess. She is defined by her status as a wife and mother, and her identity is subsumed by societal expectations of her role. Woolf's portrayal of Clarissa's inner turmoil reveals the oppressive nature of these societal expectations, and the limitations they place on women.

Similarly, Kureishi's "Buddha of Suburbia" explores the experiences of women in a multicultural society. The novel follows the life of Karim Amir, a young mixed-race man growing up in London in the 1970s. The novel features several female characters who are subject to various forms of oppression. For example, Karim's mother, Margaret, is trapped in an unhappy marriage and unable to pursue her dreams. Eva, Karim's lover, is a black woman who faces discrimination and prejudice because of her race. Kureishi's portrayal of these characters highlights the intersectionality of oppression, as the women face discrimination not only because of their gender but also because of their race.

Both novels also explore the impact of women's oppression on their mental health. In "Mrs Dalloway," Clarissa's inner turmoil and dissatisfaction with her life suggest that societal expectations can have a detrimental impact on women's mental health. Similarly, in "Buddha of Suburbia," the female characters are shown to suffer from depression and anxiety as a result of the discrimination they face. Kureishi's portrayal of these women's struggles highlights the need for society to address the root causes of oppression and discrimination.

In conclusion, the theme of women's oppression in society is a prevalent issue that continues to be relevant today. Both "Mrs Dalloway" and "Buddha of Suburbia" offer insightful portrayals of the challenges faced by women in different contexts. By highlighting the impact of societal expectations on women's lives and mental health, these novels serve as a reminder of the need for social change and the importance of creating a society where women can thrive. It is our responsibility as a society to continue to work towards creating a more equitable and just world where women can live without fear of oppression and discrimination.