FROM OTHERNESS TO SELF-HOOD: AN EXISTENTIALIST FEMINIST ANALYSIS OF AYESHA BAQIR’S BEYOND THE FIELDS

Abstract

This research analyses Ayesha Baqir’s Beyond the Fields (2019) to investigate the obstacles encountered by women and their lack of individuality that further aggravate their lives. The female characters—Zara, Tara, Saima Appi, and Sehr Madam—are portrayed as being subjected to gender inequality within a patriarchal system deeply rooted in Pakistani society. The novel highlights how institutions like marriage, family, and religion deprive women of their basic rights. Like many Pakistani writers, Ayesha Baqir raises her voice against gender disparity and marginalization of women as the “Other.” This study incorporates Simone De Beauvoir’s The Second Sex (1953) to examine factors responsible for women’s submissiveness and loss of identity. It also explores how Zara’s growing consciousness leads her to resist cultural oppression and gain emancipation. The research ultimately aims to enlighten women about their self-worth and inspire them to challenge male-dominated traditions.