Reincarnation of myths as history and science an exploration of the use of mythology in select twenty first century Indian english fiction

Abstract

Mythological fiction has always been an integral genre of Indian English literature. The renarration and reinterpretation of myths in mythological fiction acquire more significance in the post-truth era since myths form an integralpart of post-truth narratives in India. Myths hold considerable emotional appeal, which renders them a pivotal component in the post-truth discourse. They provide powerful narratives that shape collective beliefs and perceptions. Examining how the select Indian English mythological fictions in the twenty-first century-the Shiva Trilogy (2010 2013) written by Amish Tripathi, The Krishna Key (2012) by Ashwin Sanghiand Asura: Tale of the Vanquished- The Story of Ravana and His People (2011) by Anand Neelakantan-reflect the various elements of the post-truth phenomenon, the thesis seeks to explore the intricate relationship between mythological fiction and the broader post-truth discourse of the contemporary era. The framework of euhemerism or historical interpretation of mythologyoffers a better insight into the analysis of the reinterpretation of myths in the select texts, in the context of post-truth. The select works attempt to interpret mythology historically, anthropomorphise mythological characters, and re - narrate myths through a more rational lens, grounding them in a context that aligns with modern historical and scientific sensibilities. The study observes that the select works re-narate myths historically and further anthropomnorphise divine or demon beings in myths as historical beings. They present myths as historical records of the past by placing mythological stories into specific historical periods such as the Indus Valley civilisation. By reinterpreting myths using scientific jargon, they also attempt to rationalise supernatural beings, things and events in myths. Subsequently, aligning with the prevalent post-truth narratives regarding the existence ofa golden past, the select novels reinterpret myths as records of a bygone era of greatness, and scientific and technological achievements.