Why did Baby Kochamma become a frustrated figure?
The God of Small Things is a notable literary work by Arundhati Roy. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of The God of Small Things.
Answer
Question: Why did Baby Kochamma become a frustrated figure?
Baby Kochamma, a character from Arundhati Roy’s novel The God of Small Things, becomes frustrated primarily because of the constraints placed upon her by society and her own choices.
Unrequited Love: Baby Kochamma’s unfulfilled love for Father Mulligan, a Catholic priest, sets the stage for much of her frustration. Her romantic feelings for him are not reciprocated. She leads to a lifetime of bitterness and resentment.
Social Expectations: As a woman in a conservative society, Baby Kochamma faces societal pressures and expectations that limit her freedom and agency. She feels trapped by the rigid gender roles and norms of her time. She is unable to pursue her desires or ambitions fully.
Family Dynamics: Baby Kochamma struggles with power dynamics and unresolved conflicts within her own family. Her domineering personality and manipulative behavior alienate her from others. She leads to strained relationships and further exacerbates her frustrations.
Loss of Control: Baby Kochamma’s attempts to control her surroundings often backfire, leaving her powerless and disillusioned. Her schemes and manipulations fail to bring her the satisfaction or validation she seeks, contributing to her frustration and despair.
In termination, we can say that Baby Kochamma’s frustration stems from unfulfilled desires, societal pressures, family dynamics, and her inability to find fulfillment and meaning in her life.