Feminist Ideology and Literary Expression in the Works of Sarojini Naidu and Arundhati Roy: A Comparative Study

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the intersections between feminist ideology and literary expression in the works of Sarojini Naidu and Arundhati Roy. Representing two distinct historical and ideological phases of Indian literature, these authors articulate evolving forms of feminist consciousness shaped by their respective socio-political contexts. Naidu’s poetic works embody an early feminist sensibility intertwined with nationalist aspirations and cultural identity, while Roy’s narratives advance a radical and intersectional critique of gender, caste, class, and political power. This study employs feminist and postcolonial theoretical frameworks to examine how both writers construct female subjectivity, negotiate identity, and challenge patriarchal norms through distinct literary strategies. The paper argues that Naidu’s symbolic and aesthetic representation of women establishes a foundational discourse of female dignity, whereas Roy’s narrative interventions expose systemic inequalities and foreground resistance. By offering a comparative perspective, the study highlights the transformation of feminist literary expression in India and underscores the continuing relevance of these authors in contemporary debates on gender and social justice.