BEYOND MARRIAGE: GENDER, AGENCY, AND SOCIAL CONSTRUCTS IN SONIAH KAMAL 'S UNMARRIAGEABLE

Abstract

This research article aims to explore the struggle of women against the social constructs in Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal. Applying the Beauvoir’s feminist ideas in her work The Second Sex, the novel shows how women grapple against traditional gender roles and how generational gap hinders the struggle of young girls for their freedom from social constructs. The study reflects the prevailing religious and traditional roles in Pakistan where women seem striving for their liberation. Feminist approach by Beauvoir critiques on patriarchal society where women are deprived of opportunities and they are dependent on men for their financial freedom. The study unveils how lack of education and opportunities keep women conform to prevailing traditional roles and restrict them from achieving their goals and dreams. It also explores the unconscious fears of being unmarriageable especially for women in Pakistani cultural context. The study reveals how women resist against the loss of their individuality and struggle for their identity and freedom. Blending the ideas of Beauvoir with the text of Unmarriageable, the study reveals how education can bring change in society if both male and females are given equal education and opportunities.