Indian Literature in English (Longman Literature in English Series)

Based on the relationship that has existed between India and Britain for over 200 years, this book looks at the position of the English language in Indian literature. During the British rule of India, English became the language of higher education and the lingua franca of the intellectual, administrative and political life. It has continued to be so, sometimes in the face of stiff and natural opposition since the conclusion of British rule in India in 1947. This book follows a generally chronological pattern and looks both at the influential Indian writers, such as Tagore, who used English as their medium, and the representation of India by English writers, such as Kipling. Biographies of the principal writers are included.