Identity Change in Jhumpa Lahiri’s Novel The Lowland

Abstract

The topic of identity is very prominent in Jhumpa Lahiri’s novel The Lowland (2013), and different characters can be analysed in terms of it. One of the main characters is an Indian woman Gauri who becomes a widow and marries the brother of her former husband. When they move to America, Gauri starts discovering her new multiple (possible present and future) identities. Therefore, the article aims to discuss how Gauri’s identity changes throughout the novel. The discussion is based on Identity Theory and its relevant concepts. It reveals how migration becomes an eye-opening experience and influences Gauri’s identity.