Wombs, Whispers, and Wastelands: Deconstructing Women’s Subjectivity in Tisha Doshani’s Small Days and Nights

This thesis explores the deconstruction of women’s subjectivity in Tisha Doshani’s Small Days and Nights. The novel tells the story of Grace, a woman caught between her personal desires and the heavy responsibilities of family, tradition, and societal expectations. Women’s subjectivity, which means how women see themselves and are seen by others, is influenced by so many factors like culture, gender roles, and even family pressures. In this work, Grace’s journey is analyzed to see how she negotiates her identity in a patriarchal society that often tries to define her life for her. The research looks at feminist theories, especially from thinkers like Judith Butler and Simone de Beauvoir, to understand Grace’s struggles with her roles as a sister, wife, and daughter. It also shows how Grace’s relationship with her disabled sister, Lucia, adds to her challenges while at the same time giving her a unique kind of strength. The thesis argues that Grace’s loneliness and desire for freedom aren’t just personal. Instead, they’re deeply tied to the cultural and social expectations of women. This thesis offers a unique exploration of Grace’s identity, not only through her personal struggles but by connecting them to the cultural, social, and patriarchal forces that shape her subjectivity. Unlike other studies, it combines feminist theories from thinkers like Judith Butler and Simone de Beauvoir to analyze how Grace negotiates her roles as a sister, wife, and daughter, highlighting the complexities of her resistance.