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Worksheets for Flipped Classroom Activities
Worksheet 1
1. Is Shakespeare mentioned in the novel? Or are his plays referred in the novel?
2. What is the role of Nakhuda Ilyas in the legend of the Gun Merchant.
In Amitav Ghosh's "Gun Island," the term nakhuda, meaning both "ship owner" and "ship's captain," reflects its historical use in Indian Ocean trade. Nakhuda Ilyas, a key figure in the Gun Merchant's legend, is shown as a brave and loyal protector. He rescues the Gun Merchant from pirates and accompanies him on a dangerous journey, facing challenges like "poison-spitting monsters" and a "burning wind." These dangers symbolize the fragility of human life and the impact of natural disasters. Through Nakhuda Ilyas, the story connects history with the modern issues of environmental change, highlighting resilience and survival.
3. Characters in one column and their profession in another.
4. Write the name of relevant character.
5. What sort of comparison between the book and the mobile is presented at the end of the novel?
In Gun Island, the novel compares books and mobile phones to show the difference between old ways of connecting and modern technology. Books, especially ones about myths and history, offer deep knowledge and take us to different worlds, like when the Gun Merchant sees Manasa Devi in a book. This shows how books can connect us to the past and even challenge our understanding of reality. The mention of an old palm-leaf manuscript reminds us that books also link us to ancient cultures.
On the other hand, mobile phones represent fast, easy communication. Through Piya’s mobile phone, characters like Dinanath can talk to each other instantly, no matter the distance. The use of emails and Internet services lets people connect quickly and exchange information, making it easier to stay in touch and act on things right away. This shows how modern technology allows us to communicate in real-time, something books can't do.
In the end, the novel shows that both books and mobile phones help us connect, but in different ways. Books give us a deeper connection to the past and make us think, while mobile phones let us connect instantly with people all over the world. Both are ways we share stories, but they represent how communication has changed over time.
6. Tell me something about Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island in 100 words.
Amitav Ghosh's Gun Island follows the journey of Deen, a Bengali-American rare book dealer, who embarks on a quest linked to a legendary story from the Sundarbans. The novel intertwines history, myth, and climate change, exploring migration, environmental destruction, and the effects of global warming. Through a web of characters and their encounters with nature’s forces, such as cyclones and floods, Ghosh delves into the intersection of human lives and ecological shifts. The story connects the ancient past with the present, exploring how modernity and climate crises impact identity, memory, and survival.
7. What is the central theme of Amitav Ghosh’s novel ‘Gun Island’?
The central theme of Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh revolves around the intersection of migration, climate change, and human connections. The novel explores how environmental disasters and changing climates are influencing migration patterns, with characters like Deen and Piya experiencing the impacts of natural calamities, such as floods, cyclones, and rising sea levels.
It also delves into the tension between the ancient and modern, as well as the mythological and the real. The story intertwines the historical journey of the Gun Merchant with the present-day struggles of the characters, reflecting on the consequences of human actions on the environment. Through themes of cultural heritage, the novel also examines how myths, history, and modern technology converge, impacting identity and human relationships.
The climate change angle is key, as it underscores the environmental crisis driving displacement and the search for a new sense of belonging in an increasingly unstable world. Additionally, the novel highlights how ancient myths and modern technologies are part of the same global discourse on survival and adaptation.
Worksheet: 2:
Climate change in the novel:
2. Explain the title of the novel.
The title Gun Island in Amitav Ghosh's novel carries significant symbolic meaning, interweaving history, mythology, and the global implications of climate change and migration.
The term "Gun Island" refers to Bonduk-dwip (literally “Gun Island”), a mythical and secluded place that is central to the narrative of the Gun Merchant, who seeks refuge there to escape his past. In the context of the novel, the island becomes a space of both literal and metaphorical isolation. It symbolizes the way people and cultures are cut off by their personal histories, yet are constantly exposed to the forces of natural disasters and environmental changes, such as rising sea levels, floods, and cyclones.
The word "gun" in the title refers to conflict, especially relating to the colonial histories, trade, and weaponry associated with the island's myth. The Gun Merchant, as a character, is involved in a complex relationship with both his colonial past and the challenges he faces in the present. The island, being part of a story connected to gunpowder and war, alludes to the deep historical legacies of violence and colonial exploitation that shaped the lives of many characters in the novel.
The inclusion of the term "island" emphasizes isolation—both physical and emotional. Gun Island, as depicted in the novel, is a space where characters can reflect on their struggles and disconnections from the larger world. This motif of isolation also ties into the environmental theme, as islands like Gun Island are increasingly threatened by climate change, especially rising sea levels and environmental catastrophes.
Moreover, the novel draws attention to global interconnections, where the keywords “Venedig” (Venice) and “hazelnut” reveal complex historical trade routes and migration patterns. Venice, symbolizing the commercial and colonial history of Europe, contrasts with Bengal’s local myths and cultural practices, further highlighting the book's interweaving of global histories into the local and the mythical. So, the title Gun Island encapsulates the intersection of myth and history, colonial legacies, and environmental crises, inviting readers to explore how narratives of migration, violence, and survival are interwoven with the landscapes of both physical islands and the figurative "islands" that people create to escape their histories.
3.Match the characters with the reasons for migration.
- Climate Change and Environmental Displacement in Gun Island
- Myth and History in Contemporary Contexts in Gun Island
- Globalization and Migration in Gun Island
- The Role of Water in Gun Island
- Ecological and Human Interconnectedness in Gun Island
- Narrative Structure and Storytelling Techniques in Gun Island
- Impact of Technology on Human Interaction in Gun Island
- Cultural and Political Identity in Gun Island
1. What is the primary environmental concern explored in Gun Island?
2. Which natural disaster is mentioned most frequently in the novel?
3. What is the significance of the character Manasa Devi in Gun Island?
4. Which place is NOT directly referenced in Gun Island?
5. What role does technology, particularly mobile phones, play in the novel?
9. With the help of Google Translate, write Hindi & English translation of 5 Italian words from the novel.
Video: 1:
In this video, we can find the start of the plot. We come to know about the characters, the story of Bonduki Sadagar (Gun Merchant), the legend of Chand Sadagar and Mansa Devi, Mansa Devi’s shrine, and the development of the plot in its initial stages. The novel Gun Island (2019) by Amitav Ghosh explores themes of myth, history, climate change, and anthropocentrism. It belongs to the climate fiction (cli-fi) genre, which focuses on environmental concerns, a theme Ghosh also explored in The Great Derangement and The Hungry Tide. The story follows Dinanath Datta (Deen/Dino), a rare book and antiquities dealer who is financially struggling. He is fascinated by myths and folklore, and his journey begins when he learns about the legend of Bonduki Sadagar (Gun Merchant) from Nilima Bose. Though he resides in Brooklyn, the myth draws him toward the Sundarbans. His research also leads him to discussions with historian Giacinta Schiavon (Cinta). A significant theme in the novel is migration, symbolized through migratory birds, which reflects the movement of characters and the historical transitions shaping their lives.
During his journey, Dinanath meets Kanai Dutt (a character from The Hungry Tide), who mocks him and doesn’t respect his work. Another key character is Nilima Bose, who runs an NGO that helps poor, landless people in the Sundarbans. We also meet Piyali Roy (Piya), a marine biologist studying dolphin migration and beaching. The novel talks about the Bhola Cyclone (1970s), showing the damage caused by natural disasters, with a focus on climate change. It also introduces Mansa Devi’s shrine, a sacred site that survived the cyclone while the surrounding villages were destroyed. The shrine’s design is similar to Bishnupur temples and has symbols like snakes, guns, ships, and waterways.
The novel also introduces Tipu, the son of Moyna and Fokir, Fokir died helping Piya with her dolphin research. Piya helps Tipu study in the U.S., but he later gets involved with bad company. Another important character is Rafi, the grandson of a boatman who takes care of the Mansa Devi shrine. As Dinanath keeps researching, he doubts the myths about the shrine. However, the novel mixes reality with magical elements, making readers question what is real and what is myth. The story also moves to Italy, where Cinta shares a 20-year-old story about Mansa Devi, which encourages Dinanath to visit the shrine. As the story unfolds, a cobra bites Tipu, and he says, "Rani is in danger," referring to a dolphin named Rani. This moment adds mystery and suspense, leaving readers wondering if Tipu’s words are a product of imagination or a deeper connection to the events happening.
In this video, the story delves into themes of memory, existence, and societal challenges, framed within the larger context of climate change, migration, and environmental crises. Memory serves as a link between the past and present, preserving the voices and dreams of the deceased, which ultimately shapes our current identities. The wildfires in Los Angeles, a prominent motif in the narrative, act as a powerful symbol of climate change’s far-reaching effects, illustrating that no one, regardless of wealth or social status, is immune to the devastation of environmental disasters.
The story follows Dino, who returns to Brooklyn after his journey to the Sundarbans. He learns about an academic gathering on climate change in Los Angeles, which sets him on a path to travel there by airplane. During the flight, he witnesses the massive wildfires burning below, and at the same time, he receives a suspicious email, which is later revealed to be from Tipu, adding an element of intrigue to the narrative. A key character in this story is Lisa, a researcher and entomologist studying bark beetles. She explains how global warming has caused these beetles to migrate, infesting forests and hollowing out trees, which then become more vulnerable to wildfires. Despite her crucial research, Lisa faces harsh criticism, public humiliation, and even death threats.
Her experiences highlight how society often rejects those who speak inconvenient truths, drawing a parallel to the historical witch hunts and emphasizing humanity's resistance to confronting environmental crises.
The narrative also delves into themes of migration and displacement. Cinta shares the story of a historical gun merchant who journeyed to several islands, including:
- Gun Island (Venice),
- Land of Palm Sugar Candy (Egypt),
- Land of Kerechieves (Turkey),
- Land of Chains (Sicily).
This journey, marked by attacks and his eventual sale in Goa, serves as a metaphor for the broader issue of migration and the human costs of displacement. This is further reflected in Dino’s own desire to travel to Italy for an expedition, which is made possible when Gisa, Cinta’s niece and a documentary filmmaker, invites him to assist with a Bangla translation project for her documentary on migration.
The story intertwines personal loss, environmental issues, and societal challenges. The wildfires symbolize the urgent threat of climate change, while Lisa's struggle highlights the difficulties faced by those raising awareness. Historical references, like the origin of "ghetto," show how the past and present are connected. It urges us to reflect on how these issues are interwoven and calls for empathy and collective action to address climate change.
In the second part of Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island, the story focuses on migration, climate change, and the connections between different cultures, blending personal experiences with larger social and environmental issues. Dinanath, the main character, is invited to Venice by an Italian scholar named Chinta, but he hesitates due to financial difficulties. Eventually, a documentary filmmaker named Giza offers him a paid job as a Bengali translator for Bangladeshi migrants working in Venice. As Dinanath gets involved with these migrants, he meets characters like Lubna Khala and Bilal, who face serious challenges, including displacement due to floods in Bangladesh, and exploitation in Venice’s job market. This highlights the global migration problem and the exploitation of migrant workers.'
The novel’s structure includes several themes, such as "The Ghetto," "Strandings," "Dreams," "Warnings," and "High Water," each of which explores Venice’s culture and the environmental issues threatening the city. Climate change is a major theme, especially the rising waters in Venice and the spread of invasive species like shipworms and spiders. The novel also criticizes industries like tourism and pharmaceuticals, which contribute to the exploitation of labor and the degradation of the environment. Ghosh connects this exploitation to the historical slave trade, showing how modern-day labor issues, especially for migrants, are linked to past injustices.
Dinanath reflects on the spiritual connection between Venice and Varanasi, viewing both cities as places of decay and mortality. These cities symbolize the fragility of human civilization. Throughout the story, Dinanath and Piya discuss the balance between scientific explanations and cultural myths. While Piya believes in rational, scientific reasons for events, Dinanath is drawn to the cultural beliefs that people use to make sense of the world, highlighting the tension between modern science and traditional ways of understanding life.
The novel also includes references to popular culture, such as the Netflix film Don’t Look Up, which connects the idea of climate crisis denial with capitalist exploitation. This comparison underscores the novel’s critique of the world’s refusal to address the environmental disaster unfolding around us. This section of Gun Island offers a rich exploration of personal and social issues, like migration, exploitation, and climate change, while also discussing how human and environmental crises are interconnected. The narrative critiques modern society’s approach to both human rights and ecological problems, urging a reconsideration of how we relate to the world around us.
Thematic Study:
In this video, we can find that Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island explores the theme of etymological mystery, showing how language shapes our understanding of the world. The discussion also touches on historification of myth, climate change, and migration, which will be covered later. Words change meaning over time when translated across cultures. The title Gun Island does not refer to firearms; "Gun" comes from the Venetian dialect and represents Venice. The character Chinta, a historian, helps uncover these hidden meanings, showing how words carry different meanings in different languages.
Some words in the novel have changed over time. "Ghetto" originally meant a foundry in Venice but later became known as a Jewish settlement. "Saudagar" in Bangla feels grand, while "merchant" in English feels ordinary. "Booth" (ghost) comes from the Sanskrit bhu, meaning to exist, connecting the supernatural with reality. The "Gun Merchant" is not an arms dealer but a traveler who visited Venice. The discussion also explains how Google Translate helps understand words but can distance people from traditional knowledge.
The video also explores possession and whether the past still exists in the present through memory and language. In Christian traditions, possession is seen as something negative, linked to demons, while other cultures see it differently. The novel connects this idea to historical inquisition practices, where people were punished for beliefs that did not fit religious norms. The discussion also links etymology to real-world problems like climate change and migration, using spiders moving due to global warming as a symbol of constant change.
This video helps us understand how Gun Island connects language, history, and myths. It shows how words evolve and how translation can change meanings. The novel makes us think about how language influences our view of the world and how history remains part of daily life. Through this, Amitav Ghosh reveals deeper connections between language, culture, and human experience.
In this video, we can find a discussion on how Amitav Ghosh combines myth and history in Gun Island. The video explores how the myth of Mansa Devi, a gun merchant, is connected to real historical events such as human trafficking and migration. Ghosh shows that myths, often considered supernatural, actually reflect both the past and the present, offering insights into modern issues like climate change and human trafficking.
Symbols, like the hooded snake at Mansa Devi’s shrine, link the myth to historical and cultural identities. The protagonist, Deen, travels through real locations such as Venice and the Sundarbans, uncovering how the myth connects to actual world problems. Ghosh reinterprets the Bengali folktale Bonduki Sadagar (the Gun Merchant) to highlight themes of trade, migration, and survival, showing that myths can be grounded in historical truths. We can find mention of four academic tools for studying myths:
- Functionalism (Malinowski)
- Structuralism (Lévi-Strauss)
- Psychoanalysis (Freud)
- Myth and Ritual (Durkheim, Harrison)
The video is a sequel to the previous one, where we discussed the mythification of history and the historification of myth. In this video, we look at how Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island connects the myth of Mansa Devi to modern issues like climate change and migration. The novel uses rituals, especially pilgrimages, to show how they represent human endurance and our deep connection to nature. Pilgrimages are symbolic of spirituality and resilience, and they’re tied to the myth of Mansa Devi, which originally helped explain these rituals. But now, Ghosh reinterprets this myth to speak about today’s ecological crises.
Through characters like Dinanath, Ghosh links the myth to real-world events like natural disasters and migration. Dinanath’s experiences reflect the hardships people face due to environmental changes, and the novel critiques issues like coal mining, which contribute to climate change. Ghosh suggests that the “anger of nature” seen in natural calamities is a direct result of human neglect and environmental damage. He uses the concepts of functionalism and collective effervescence to explain how rituals help communities cope and find meaning during times of crisis.
The idea of Sanskritization is also important here, as it shows how myths and rituals adapt over time to reflect changing cultural and ecological realities. Ghosh reinterprets the myth of Mansa Devi, moving away from the supernatural and using it to address the environmental challenges we face today. So, in Gun Island, myths are not just preserved traditions but also powerful tools for understanding and responding to modern global issues.
In Part III of the series "Historification of Myth and Mythification of History", the discussion revolves around how colonialism has shaped the way Eastern and Western cultures perceive each other. Edward Said’s idea of Orientalism is central to this, which critiques how the West has historically portrayed the East as backward, inferior, and exotic. This idea is reflected in Gun Island, where characters like Dinanath, Kanai, and Nilima experience the lingering effects of colonialism on their identities.
Dinanath, who has spent time in the West, feels superior and influenced by Western ideals. Kanai challenges this attitude by mocking Dinanath, questioning his inflated sense of self. This dynamic highlights the tension between colonial influences and self-perception, as colonialism often shaped how people from the East viewed their own worth and identity in comparison to the West.
The novel challenges fixed cultural identities, showing that Eastern and Western perspectives are interconnected. Characters like Kanai and Nilima suggest these boundaries are fluid, reflecting Ghosh’s view that addressing global issues like climate change requires both Eastern wisdom and Western science. Ghosh also emphasizes the value of Eastern myths, suggesting they offer important lessons for modern issues like environmental crises and migration. By reinterpreting these myths, we gain insights into human behavior and societal struggles, advocating for a more interconnected and compassionate understanding of the past and present.
In this video lecture, Amitav Ghosh's Gun Island is discussed as a response to the issues raised in his earlier work, The Great Derangement. Ghosh critiques the lack of attention to climate change in contemporary literature, which he refers to as "The Great Derangement." This term highlights the failure of modern stories to address the environmental crises of our time, leaving these issues out of mainstream narratives.
Gun Island combines myths with real-world events to highlight the pressing issue of climate change. The novel’s protagonist, Dinanath, experiences displacement and unpredictability, mirroring the struggles faced by many due to environmental upheavals. Ghosh uses myths like Mansa Devi and the Gun Merchant to bridge the past, present, and future, offering symbolic insights into the climate crisis. The blending of rational and mystical characters, such as Piali Roy and Chinta, allows Ghosh to engage both Eastern and Western audiences, challenging stereotypes about their respective cultures.
Ghosh also addresses the systemic forces behind climate change, including colonialism, capitalism, and industrialization. He critiques how Western industrial practices, such as coal mining, have exacerbated environmental degradation, and how colonial powers ignored traditional ecological knowledge that could have helped prevent the current crisis. Despite the grim realities of climate change, Ghosh’s work carries a hopeful message, advocating for collective action grounded in respect for nature, inspired by both religious and cultural practices. We can also find the novel's use of magical realism, drawing on elements like the uncanny to reflect the unpredictability of climate change. Through this, Ghosh urges a reimagining of how literature addresses climate issues, calling on both writers and readers to engage with the environmental challenges shaping our world.
In this video, we explore the central theme of migration in Amitav Ghosh's Gun Island, which delves into the complexities of human displacement driven by environmental changes, socio-political issues, and economic struggles. The novel portrays migration not merely as a search for better opportunities but as a response to a range of crises, including climate change, war, poverty, and communal violence.
Ghosh uses the sinking city of Venice and the flood-prone Sundarbans as metaphors for the devastating effects of rising sea levels and environmental degradation. Characters such as Lubna Khala, who seeks refuge from rising waters, and Tipu and Rafi, who flee poverty, represent the struggles of real-life migrants forced to leave their ancestral lands. These personal stories reflect the harsh realities of migration, which is often a desperate attempt to survive or find hope in a world increasingly impacted by climate change.
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