Sherlock Holmes, Byomkesh Bakshi, and Feluda: Negotiating the Center and the Periphery

Sherlock Holmes, Byomkesh Bakshi, and Feluda are analyzed in Negotiating the Centre and the Periphery to demonstrate how they problematize reading, inquiry, and racial superiority. It argues that only texts that meet global hierarchy standards are considered canonical, while indigenous texts remain as Other literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Sherlock Holmes, Byomkesh Bakshi, and Feluda: Negotiating the Centre and the Periphery is a groundbreaking postcolonial analysis of Conan Doyle's canonical detective texts, encompassing Sherlock Holmes adventures and lesser-known detective works by two Bengali writers, Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay (1899-1970) and Satyajit Ray (1921-1992). The book proposes that in a postcolonial reading context, the representation of Holmes problematizes the act of reading and the act and discourse of inquiry. It is observed that the Holmes adventures contribute to the hegemonic culture of "Anglo/Eurocentrism," reinforcing racial superiority among the "colonized." This book delves into the study of literary texts as signifiers of specific national identities and their potential to reveal the cultural constructs of states. It argues that only those texts that adhere to the standards of global hierarchy are considered canonical, while indigenous texts, despite their significance, remain categorized as Other literature. The book highlights colonial and postcolonial discourse in the Bengali detective texts and examines how far Holmes has been able to reinforce racial dominance over the Indian detectives, Byomkesh Bakshi and Feluda.

Introduction:
Sherlock Holmes, Byomkesh Bakshi, and Feluda are iconic figures in detective literature, each representing different aspects of the colonial and postcolonial experience. This book aims to explore the ways in which these characters negotiate the center and the periphery, both within their respective literary contexts and in the broader social and cultural landscape.

Sherlock Holmes:
Sherlock Holmes is a quintessential Victorian detective, known for his deductive reasoning, logical thinking, and ability to solve complex cases. However, his representation in Conan Doyle's texts also problematizes the act of reading and the discourse of inquiry. Holmes is often portrayed as an outsider, a foreigner who does not fully understand the cultural nuances of the British Empire. This portrayal reinforces the idea that the colonized are inferior to the colonizers and that their cultures and traditions are worth less.

Byomkesh Bakshi:
Byomkesh Bakshi is a Bengali detective created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay in the early 20th century. He is known for his sharp intellect, logical reasoning, and commitment to social justice. Byomkesh Bakshi's representation in the Bengali detective texts highlights the complexities of the postcolonial experience. He is often portrayed as a hybrid character, combining traditional Bengali values with Western knowledge and technology. This portrayal reflects the struggles of the colonized to adapt to the changing world order and to assert their cultural identity.

Feluda:
Feluda is another iconic Bengali detective created by Satyajit Ray in the mid-20th century. He is known for his wit, intelligence, and commitment to solving mysteries. Feluda's representation in the Bengali detective texts reflects the cultural richness and diversity of India. He is often portrayed as a wise and knowledgeable figure who is able to navigate the complexities of Indian society and culture.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Sherlock Holmes, Byomkesh Bakshi, and Feluda negotiate the center and the periphery in complex and multifaceted ways. Their representations problematize the act of reading and the discourse of inquiry, highlighting the complexities of the colonial and postcolonial experience. While Holmes is often portrayed as an outsider, Byomkesh Bakshi is a hybrid character who combines traditional Bengali values with Western knowledge and technology. Feluda, on the other hand, is portrayed as a wise and knowledgeable figure who is able to navigate the complexities of Indian society and culture. These characters continue to resonate with readers today, reminding us of the ongoing struggles of the colonized to assert their cultural identity and to navigate the changing world order.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498512107