In other words, the house becomes more than a physical manifestation of his dream of freedom and fulfillment but is also a symbol that connects his personal striving with the larger issue of the search for freedom from colonial oppression. In this sense the symbol of the house can be also represent a country or a people who wish to no longer be dominated by others or told what to do and how to behave. Finally he purchases a house in Sikkim street. Although the house is very expensive and not very well built it is, finally, a house for Mr. Biswas. The house is also a symbol of personal power and independence and the dream that the main character has of living by his rules and not the rules of others.
From one perspective this novel is comic with regard to the various and often absurd problems and situations that the main character encounters and in the complex situations that he finds himself in. However, there is also an important level of realism in this novel and it expresses a very serious and even a tragic view of life and reality.
From my point-of-view there are two central and interrelated facets to this novel. The first is the search for independence and freedom that characterizes the life and endeavors of the main character. His early life stresses the sense of humiliation and subservience that is continued in his marriage. The need for personal freedom is manifested in the desire for his own house in which he can make the rules.
However, the second facet or theme of this novel is in my opinion even more important. This refers to the sense of perseverance and the determination that the main character embodies. He never gives up on his desire for freedom and a house; even though he continually fails in his attempts. On one level there is a certain sad humor in his situation but on the other hand one admires the courage...
Our semester plans gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to our entire library of resources —writing tools, guides, example essays, tutorials, class notes, and more.
Get Started Now