Magic Realism in Urdu Novels A Critical Study of Narrative Technique

اردو ناول میں جادوئی حقیقت نگاری کی تکنیک۔۔۔ ایک مطالعہ

Abstract

Magic Realism is a literary narrative technique that intricately weaves the fantastical with the mundane, creating a unique storytelling experience that transcends conventional realism. Originating in Latin American literature, this technique has profoundly influenced Urdu novels, where it has been adapted to reflect the socio-cultural and historical realities of the subcontinent. This study delves into the evolution of Magic Realism in Urdu literature, tracing its thematic and stylistic transformations over time. By incorporating elements of folklore, mysticism, and historical consciousness, Urdu novelists have enriched their narratives with a layered complexity that bridges imagination and reality. This research examines how prominent Urdu writers have employed Magic Realism as a means to explore deeper philosophical and existential questions, presenting the supernatural not as a mere embellishment but as an intrinsic part of the lived human experience. Furthermore, it investigates the ways in which this technique has been used to critique social, political, and cultural structures, offering an alternative lens through which reality is perceived.

The study also highlights the continuing relevance of Magic Realism in contemporary Urdu novels, demonstrating how modern authors employ this technique to navigate the tensions between tradition and modernity. By blurring the boundaries between the real and the surreal, Magic Realism serves as a powerful narrative tool that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Ultimately, this research underscores the enduring significance of Magic Realism in Urdu literature, positioning it as a vital and evolving mode of storytelling that remains deeply embedded in the literary fabric of the region.