Imitation of Reality and Social Realism in Seth’s A Suitable Boy

Abstract

Vikram Seth’s A Suitable Boy beautifully employs imitation of reality and social realism. He portrays Post-Independent India in the yearly 1950s. ‘Social' is an omnibus word covering all aspects of human activity that displays an awareness to others. Simply speaking "Social Realism" is an extraordinary reach of understanding of social life. Social realism involves individual social and cultural changes in all the spheres of life. It deals with social readjustments and the social maladjustments such as unemployment, youth unrest, industrial indiscipline, crime, war and their causes and consequences. The novel A Suitable Boy clearly explains social realism through depictions of the Post-Independence India's societal tensions, customs and hierarchies. Seth portrays rigid caste hierarchies shaping marriages and social interactions.