Environmental Themes in the Novels of Amitav Ghosh

Abstract

Amitav Ghosh’s novels weave together powerful narratives that explore the relationship between human societies and the natural world. His works, such as The Hungry Tide and The Ibis Trilogy, highlight how environmental degradation is intertwined with colonial histories, human exploitation, and the complex ecological challenges we face today. Ghosh presents nature not just as a backdrop, but as a character that shapes human lives, urging us to reconsider our responsibilities towards the environment. Through his vivid storytelling, he addresses the long-lasting effects of colonialism on both people and ecosystems, showing how past exploitation continues to influence modern environmental crises. Beyond his fiction, Ghosh advocates for a cultural shift in how we view climate change, calling for a new narrative that recognizes our interconnectedness with nature. His works serve as both a reflection on the present and a powerful call to action, urging us to rethink our relationship with the environment and work together for a sustainable future.

Keywords: Climate change, Colonialism, Cultural narrative, Ecological crisis, Environmentalism, Human-nature relationship, Sustainability,.