The Routledge Companion to Sinhala Fiction from Post-War Sri Lanka: Resistance and Reconfiguration

This companion provides a critical collection of Sinhala resistance literature from Sri Lanka, featuring translated short stories and excerpts from novels written after the civil war. The selected texts address issues such as civilian casualties, religion, media censorship, women's experiences, education, and youth problems. It highlights an alternate discourse among the ethnic Sinhala group and contributes to peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.

Format: Hardback
Length: 406 pages
Publication date: 27 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive companion offers a vital compilation of Sinhala resistance literature from Sri Lanka, encompassing translated short stories and excerpts from Sinhala novels written in the aftermath of the country's civil war. The selected texts, penned by renowned national award-winning writers, share a common theme of resistance, challenging the exclusivist nationalism propagated through mass media and party politics during the war. The volume delves into critical issues such as the plight of civilians during conflict, the influence of religion in Sri Lankan society, media censorship, the experiences of women in war, and the current education system and youth problems in present-day Sri Lanka. It also highlights an alternative discourse within the ethnic Sinhala group, contributing to the broader movement toward peace and reconciliation among the diverse ethnic communities in Sri Lanka.

A distinctive feature of this companion is its contribution to the expanding body of translated Sinhala literature. It will be an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and researchers specializing in ethnic studies, war and peace studies, peace and conflict studies, literature, cultural studies, political sociology, and South Asian studies, particularly those with an interest in Sri Lankan literature.

The companion's organization is structured into several chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of resistance and its impact on Sri Lankan society. The first chapter provides an introduction to the context of the civil war and the emergence of Sinhala resistance literature. It explores the historical background, political dynamics, and social factors that contributed to the conflict and the subsequent resistance movements.

The second chapter focuses on translated short stories, showcasing the power of storytelling to convey resistance messages and inspire hope. The selected stories, written by renowned authors, depict the struggles and resilience of ordinary people caught in the midst of war. They explore themes of survival, solidarity, and the pursuit of justice in a society torn apart by conflict.

The third chapter explores excerpts from Sinhala novels, providing a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural context in which the resistance movements took place. These novels offer a rich tapestry of characters, narratives, and themes that reflect the complexities of the war and its aftermath. They explore the role of religion, nationalism, and social hierarch.

The fourth chapter examines the role of media censorship during the war and its impact on the dissemination of resistance literature. It discusses the strategies employed by the government to control the media and suppress dissent, as well as the efforts of journalists and activists to circumvent these restrictions and promote the voices of the marginalized.

The fifth chapter explores the experiences of women in war, highlighting the unique challenges they faced and the contributions they made to the resistance movements. It discusses the sexual violence, displacement, and trauma experienced by women, as well as their role in rebuilding their communities and promoting peace.

The sixth chapter examines the current education system and youth problems in Sri Lanka, recognizing the importance of education in fostering social cohesion and promoting peace. It discusses the challenges faced by students, particularly those from minority communities, and the need for inclusive and equitable education policies to address the needs of all students.

The final chapter reflects on the significance of Sinhala resistance literature in promoting peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. It discusses the challenges faced by writers and activists in navigating the complexities of post-war society. It also highlights the importance of cultural exchange and dialogue to promote understanding and empathy among different ethnic communities.

In conclusion, this companion offers a valuable resource for students, scholars, and researchers seeking to understand the complexities of Sri Lankan society and the ongoing struggle for peace and reconciliation. It provides a comprehensive collection of Sinhala resistance literature, showcasing the power of storytelling, literature, and cultural exchange to promote understanding and empathy among different ethnic communities. By highlighting the experiences of civilians, women, and youth, the companion contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Sri Lanka and the importance of collective action to build a more inclusive and peaceful society.

Weight: 950g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367554682