The Turmoil of Identity in Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist

Abstract

The study aimed to limelight identity crisis in Mohsin Hamid’s much reckoned novel The Reluctant Fundamentalist. It considers discrete complications in the journey of the pivotal character Changez in America (before and after 9/11) who primarily becomes accustomed to its lifestyle and later through various symbols becomes inquisitive of his own motives in America. He sees himself as a mercenary of American interests and his corroboration to the cause of the firm Underwood and Samson as a transgression to human notions. Changez’s introspection, turmoil  of  East and West civilisation, shatterring of his American dream, racial prejudices in America, his torn commitments and eventually his protest against American policies becomes apparent in the discussion of of his identity crisis.