Postcolonial and Subaltern Studies have been important in critiquing the nation and its citizens. These have also helped critique the nationalist project that drives the Indian state. In this course, we will critically read and compare approaches based on the changing nature of subaltern studies, socio-economic and socio-cultural identity formation, and the way dissent manifests itself in India. While there are a number of classes dealing with the history of pre-independence India, there is a marked absence of classes dealing with the history of India post-partition. Abandoning the narrative at this time of deep divide needs to be rectified, and thus allowing students to explore the history and politics that resulted from the scars rendered by the Partition. It also enables students to engage with, and garner a deeper understanding, of the long reaching effects of colonialism, as they play out in the modern history of a post-colonial geography. We hope that this class will fill the gap speaking to the modern history of the Indian subcontinent. 

Readings will draw on historiography, social theory, political economy, colonial and postcolonial studies, ethnography, and governance. Course material will be largely key secondary material although this will be supplemented with some primary material. The course is organised thematically rather than strictly chronologically, so that students will find it an advantage to have some awareness of the general history of colonial and post-colonial India. Evaluation will be based on class participation, a presentation of weekly readings (done once or twice through the semester), a final research project proposal (peer-graded), and its presentation thereafter. 

This course does not require a prerequisite, but requires a submission of an expression of interest. Please send a statement of interest in about 500 words to  [email protected], briefly expressing your interest in the course and how you would be able to contribute to this seminar. The course is appropriate for students across every region and/or discipline.