Romaisa Maryam

Abstract

Femicide, the gender-based killing of women, remains one of the most severe forms of violence in patriarchal societies. This research investigated femicide in Awais Khan’s No Honour (2021), focusing on its destructive effects on women’s autonomy and family relationships. Using feminist and psychoanalytic lenses, the study employed close textual analysis to examine how patriarchal structures and honour codes normalize violence and how unconscious fears shape family members’ conflicted actions. Findings showed femicide operates on two levels: Shabnam’s murder illustrated lethal honour-based violence and community complicity, while Abida’s story revealed ongoing threats through forced marriage, pregnancy outside wedlock, and exploitation. Jamil’s internal conflict highlighted the psychological trauma families endure under honour codes. These findings reflect real-world cases in Pakistan, confirming that the novel mirrors social realities. The study concluded that femicide functions both as a physical act and as a cultural practice that silences women and fractures families. Integrating feminist and psychoanalytic perspectives, it contributes to discussions on gender-based violence and underscores the need for literary, cultural, and legal engagement with femicide in South Asia.