Volume IV Special Issue I January 2024

Name of Author : Ayana Antony

Title of the paper : The Politics of Archiving Violence: A Comparative Study of Memory, Trauma and Documentation in Dheepan and Anils Ghost

Abstract: The research paper delves into the intricacies of how political struggles are portrayed and documented in different media forms. Focusing on the acclaimed film Dheepan directed by Jacques Audiard and the novel Anils Ghost by Michael Ondaatje, the project aims to dissect their narrative approaches, artistic choices, and historical contexts to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of the Sri Lankan struggle. The research will encompass a thorough analysis of how these two distinct works represent the Sri Lankan struggle, examining the use of imagery, storytelling techniques, and the role of memory and archives in shaping the narratives. By comparing and contrasting the cinematic and literary aspects, this paper tends to highlight the unique strengths and limitations of each medium in conveying the complexity of political conflict. By exploring trauma in literature, the theory aims to shed light on the complexities of trauma, its impact on individual and collective identities, and the potential for healing and growth. These narratives may incorporate non linear structure, fragmented storytelling, and other techniques to mirror the disorienting nature of trauma. Furthermore, this project will explore the implications of documenting and archiving such struggles both within the works themselves and in the broader context of historical representation. The comparative study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the film Dheepan and the novel Anils Ghost approach the politics of documentation and archiving in the context of Sri Lankan struggle. By examining the two distinct artistic expressions, it aims to contribute to the discourse surrounding the representation of political struggle in media and literature, shedding light on the power and responsibility of documentation in shaping history and contemporary issues.

Keywords : Trauma, Memory, Sri Lankan Struggles, Narrative Techniques, Political Allegories.

DOI :

Page Number : 68-72