Discuss ‘The Compromise’ as an Allegory
The Compromise by Githa Hariharan is a short story that can be read as an allegory about gender roles, family expectations, and the silent sacrifices that women are expected to make in Indian society. Through symbolic characters and a simple yet emotionally powerful narrative, the story represents larger truths about the institution of marriage and the status of women.
1. Allegory of Marriage and Patriarchy
At its heart, the story is not just about a single marriage, but about the idea of marriage as a social institution in a patriarchal setup. The protagonist, Vani, represents thousands of women whose desires and dreams are suppressed for the sake of family honor, tradition, and social stability. Her decision to “compromise” is symbolic of the cultural expectation that women should tolerate injustice to preserve family unity.
The title itself is symbolic—“The Compromise” does not just refer to Vani’s decision to stay in a marriage despite being cheated on. It refers to a lifetime of compromises women make: giving up on careers, independence, or even self-respect, in exchange for social acceptance or family peace.
2. Symbolic Characters
Each character in the story can be viewed as representing an idea. Vani symbolizes the modern, educated woman who is caught between personal freedom and social responsibility. Her husband represents male privilege—he expects forgiveness and continuation of marital duties despite his betrayal. The mother-in-law stands for traditional Indian values that prioritize family image over a woman’s dignity.
These characters are not just individuals but representations of societal forces. Together, they reflect the pressures and constraints placed on women to maintain the illusion of a perfect home.
3. Use of Language and Setting
Hariharan’s simple and direct language helps readers connect to the story on a personal level while its deeper meaning unfolds gradually. The domestic setting of the story—meals, conversations, silences—is symbolic of how major life decisions and deep emotional turmoil often take place in ordinary environments. The home becomes a metaphor for entrapment, especially for women like Vani.
4. Silence and Inner Conflict
Another important aspect of the story is Vani’s silence. She does not argue, rebel, or run away. Instead, her silence speaks volumes. It becomes a symbol of the emotional labor and internal conflict women experience when forced to choose between self-respect and family peace. In this way, the story becomes an allegory for countless voiceless women who bear emotional wounds in silence.
5. Broader Message
The Compromise doesn’t just tell one woman’s story—it speaks to a broader truth about how Indian society views women’s roles. It criticizes how women are often expected to keep families together at any cost. The story invites readers to question the fairness of these expectations and to reflect on the emotional cost of “compromises” made in the name of tradition and family values.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Compromise functions as a powerful allegory. It uses one woman’s emotional struggle to reflect on larger societal issues concerning gender, family, and morality. Through symbolism, silence, and well-crafted characters, Githa Hariharan makes a strong statement about the compromises women are forced to make in a patriarchal world. The story urges readers to rethink what is often accepted as “normal” and highlights the need for greater emotional and social justice for women.