Identity and Cultural Conflicts In Jhumpa Lahiri's Novel, The Namesake

This paper explores the theme of identity and cultural conflict in Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake. The novel delves into the protagonist Gogol Ganguli's struggles with his dual identity as a first-generation American and a Bengali immigrant. The paper examines the tension between his parents' traditional Bengali values and the American culture he is immersed in, highlighting the complexities of cultural assimilation, self-identity, and belonging. Through a close analysis of the narrative, character development, and key moments in the story, this paper discusses how the clash of cultural expectations impacts Gogol’s sense of self and his relationships with his family and society. The research also investigates the broader implications of cultural displacement and the quest for personal identity in the context of immigration.