Sketch the character of Majeed
Tree Without Roots is a notable literary work by Syed Waliullah. 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, and various study materials of Tree Without Roots.
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Question: Sketch the character of Majeed.
“Tree Without Roots” is an iconic novel in the history of Bengali literature by Syed Waliullah (1922-1971). One of the main characters in the novel is Majeed. He is depicted as a complex and multifaceted character with positive and negative traits. Here are some of the characteristic features of Majeed’s character as portrayed in the novel:
Selfishness: Majeed is deeply selfish and only considers his needs and desires. He is willing to sacrifice the happiness of the people of Mahabbatnagar. Again, his selfishness is found in the case of his friend Khaleque for his own personal gain. Amena, a wife of Khaleque, wants to have holy water to conceive. Her belief is revealed in these ways,
The coming of the pir had filled Amena with new hope. Perhaps he could help her. Why perhaps? She knew he could.
Materialism: Majeed is obsessed with material possessions and wealth. He will do whatever it takes to acquire more money and status, even if it means compromising his values or betraying those close to him. For his materialistic purpose, he decorates a grave. He earns by making fools of the people of Mahabbatnagar.
Arrogance: Majeed is extraordinarily arrogant and thinks very highly of himself. He believes he is better than others and is unafraid to show it. He is dismissive of people he perceives as beneath him and quick to judge others.
Dishonesty: Majeed is a dishonest fellow who lies and deceives others to get what he wants. He is unafraid to manipulate people to achieve his goals and often uses his charm and charisma to win people over. His dishonesty is revealed several times throughout the novel.
Betrayal and Religious Hypocrisy: Majeed is not above betraying those who trust him for his benefit. He betrays the general and innocent village people of Mohabbatnsgar. He also betrays his friend Khaleque by using him for his gain. He plays with the innocent hearts of the villagers. His religious hypocrisy is revealed when he consoles the old lady for her dead grandson. Majeed says,
Allah takes away those whom he loves best.
Majeed’s character is complex and flawed, and his negative traits significantly develop the novel’s plot and themes.