Hindu Widowhood

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“Till death do us part,” is a phrase stated by many to their significant other. This phrase, such as others, is one that represents the commitment of a relationship. For the Hindu culture, this phrase is taken quite literally. Hindu widowhood has long been associated with victimization and vulnerability (Czevenda, 351). In Rabindranath Tagore’s “Skeleton,” the plight of widowhood is explored. Tagore was an Indian native and captivated the inspiration of “Skeleton” by the things he witnessed in his country. India is the home to more than 30 million widows older than 40 years old (Czevenda, 351). It is also known for its caste system, which is characterized by the categorization of people and societal roles (Czevenda, 351). Tagore utilized these statistics in his hometown, along with the Hindu beliefs, to cultivate the notion that widowhood is viewed as dishonorable. …show more content…

In Tagore’s, Skeleton, the ghost attended the doctor’s wedding. However, she did not stay the entire time. In fact, she left and drank a poison mixture created with the doctor’s supplies. The ghost states, “[her] wish was when people came and found [her], that slight smiled would still be [an] intoxicating present on [her] red lips,” but in fact, no one was there to rescue her in time (Tagore, 90). In this instance, the presence of the ghost could have represented bad luck. After all, a death did occur in her attendance. POINT 3: The presence of Hindu widows is very restricted and once observed, they are shunned. Hindu widows are often ostracized because of the fear-provoking aurora they occupy. In Tagore’s, Skeleton, shortly after the ghost lost her husband she had to return back to her parent’s home. “I returned joyfully to my father’s house.” (Tagore, 85) After the passing away of their husband, new Hindu widows are frequently kicked out of their in-laws

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