asian literature

Question 1

Interpersonal relationships, particularly family dynamics are central to understanding the intricacies of various Asian cultures.

Answer 1

Family Relationships

Question 2

Explorations of morality and the complexities of human nature are common as authors grapple with issues related to societal expectations, ethical choices, and personal growth.

Answer 2

moral dilemmas and human nature

Question 3

Asian Literature navigates the complexities of cultural identity and conflict, underscoring the challenges and the beauty in preserving, adapting, and reconciling the multifaceted elements of diverse cultures

Answer 3

cultural identity and conflict within asian literature

Question 4

the experiences of individuals struggling with cultural assimilation into new environments or other cultures, and the accompanying resistance to losing their own cultural roots.

Answer 4

assimilation and resistance

Question 5

Many narratives emphasize the protagonists’ quest for identity, depicting their journeys as they grapple with the complexities of multiple cultural influences, societal expectations, and the discovery of their true selves.

Answer 5

identity formation and self-discovery

Question 6

often focus on themes of displacement, migration, and the struggles of maintaining cultural identities in foreign lands.

Answer 6

diaspora and displacement

Question 7

Romance, heartbreak, and the various emotions tied to love and loss are themes that resonate with readers across the globe, and Asian Literature is no exception to this.

Answer 7

love and loss

Question 8

Tales of war, rebellion, and political turmoil serve as critical narrative backdrops in many works, shining light on the harsh realities of conflict and its impact on individuals and societies.

Answer 8

war and conflict

Question 9

By shedding light on the authentic experiences of people from various Asian cultures, Asian Literature has played a pivotal role in breaking stereotypes and dismantling misconceptions that often arise from dominant cultural narratives.

Answer 9

breaking stereotypes

Question 10

Asian Literature has provided a platform for marginalized voices, offering insights into the struggles and triumphs of communities often overlooked in mainstream literature, thus fostering empathy and understanding.

Answer 10

representing marginalized voices

Question 11

With its diverse storytelling, Asian Literature enables cultural dialogue and understanding across borders, promoting a more inclusive, empathetic, and global perspective.

Answer 11

encouraging cultural dialogue

Question 12

Through the vibrant retelling of ancient myths, folktales, and historical events, Asian Literature serves as a medium for preserving and revitalising traditional narratives, ensuring their continual relevance and resonance for future generations.

Answer 12

preserving and revitalizing traditional narratives

Question 13

The dreams of the rich, and the
dreams of the poor - they never
overlap, do they?
See, the poor dream all their lives of
getting enough to eat and looking
like the rich. And what do the rich
dream of?
Losing weight and looking like the
poor.

Answer 13

Aravind Adiga’s, The White Tiger

Question 14

This is a heartwarming and
surprising story of thirty-six-year-
old Tokyo resident Keiko Furukura.
She has never fit in, neither in her
family, nor in school, but when she
begins working at the Hiiromachi
branch of “Smile Mart,” she finds
peace and purpose in her life”
“When I first started here, there
was a detailed manual that
taught me how to be a store
worker, and I still don’t have a
clue how to be a normal person
outside that manual.”

Answer 14

Convenience Store Woman (2016) by Sayaka Murata

Question 15

story of passionate yet ruthless
Fang Runin, also known as Rin, who
grows up poor, orphaned by a
previous war. But she studies and
gets into an elite military academy,
and develops a gift for shamanism
that lets her call upon the fire
powers of a vengeful Phoenix god.

“Great danger is always
associated with great
power. The difference
between the great and
the mediocre is that the
great are willing to take
the risk.”

“You humans always think you’re destined
for things, for tragedy or for greatness.
Destiny is a myth. Destiny is the only myth.
The gods choose nothing. You chose.”
“It’s easy to be brave. Harder to know when
not to fight.”

Answer 15

R.F. Kuang, The Poppy War (2016)

Question 16

Nguyen follows a half-French, half-Vietnamese man serving as a spy for the Communist forces in the final days of the Vietnam War. The novel is framed as a confession written by the narrator to a mysterious commandant, by whom he is being held prisoner.

Answer 16

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen

Question 17

highlight the deep connections between individuals and their homeland, exploring the emotional and political struggles faced by those striving for independence or confronting national crises.

Answer 17

nationalism and patriotism