“THE WORLD HAS MORE EVIL THAN GOOD”. EXAMINE THE STATEMENT WITH
REFERENCE TO THE STORY “ORU MANUSHYAN”
Introduction
The world we inhabit is a
complex tapestry woven with threads of both good and evil. Throughout history,
countless stories, parables, and narratives have depicted the eternal struggle
between these opposing forces. One such powerful narrative is the Malayalam
short story “Oru Manushyan” (translated as “A Human Being”) by the renowned
writer Vaikom Muhammad Basheer. This story, through its characters and plot,
explores the multifaceted nature of humanity, the existence of good and evil,
and the often grim reality of our world. The statement “The world has more evil
than good” resonates deeply within the themes and messages of this story,
prompting us to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and society.
In this essay, we will
delve into the characters, events, and underlying themes of “Oru Manushyan,”
examining how Basheer presents a world seemingly overshadowed by evil. Through
this exploration, we will uncover the various dimensions of good and evil and
assess the implications of this statement in the context of the story.
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Overview
of “Oru Manushyan”
“Oru Manushyan” is centered
around the life of its protagonist, who remains unnamed throughout the
narrative. The story begins with a poignant portrayal of the character's
struggles and existential dilemmas. Living in a society fraught with
corruption, hypocrisy, and moral decay, the protagonist grapples with his own
sense of identity and purpose. The story unfolds as a series of encounters and
reflections that highlight the pervasive presence of evil in the world.
Basheer’s writing is marked
by its simplicity and depth, capturing the essence of human emotions and
experiences. Through vivid descriptions and relatable characters, he paints a
picture of a society grappling with its demons while simultaneously yearning
for goodness. The protagonist’s journey serves as a microcosm of the broader
human experience, illustrating the tension between good and evil that exists in
every individual.
The
Protagonist’s Struggle
At the heart of “Oru
Manushyan” lies the protagonist’s internal struggle. He is portrayed as a
sensitive and introspective individual, keenly aware of the injustices and
moral failings around him. As he navigates through life, he encounters various
individuals who embody different aspects of humanity—some representing kindness
and compassion, while others personify greed, selfishness, and malice.
From the outset, it is
clear that the protagonist is disillusioned by the world around him. He
observes the exploitation of the weak by the powerful, the betrayal of trust
among friends, and the pervasive apathy of society towards suffering. This
harsh reality fuels his sense of despair, leading him to question the inherent
goodness of people. Through the protagonist’s eyes, Basheer unveils a world
where evil seems to dominate, reinforcing the notion that “the world has more
evil than good.”
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Encounters
with Evil
As the story progresses,
the protagonist’s encounters with various characters further illustrate the
prevalence of evil in society. He meets individuals who are selfish, dishonest,
and cruel. Each interaction serves as a reminder of the darker side of human
nature, highlighting how easily individuals can succumb to greed and moral
corruption.
One notable encounter is
with a wealthy businessman who exploits his employees, subjecting them to harsh
working conditions while reaping enormous profits. The protagonist’s outrage at
this injustice reflects his deep-seated belief in fairness and humanity.
However, the businessman’s indifference to the suffering of others starkly
contrasts with the protagonist’s values, underscoring the disparity between
good and evil.
Furthermore, the
protagonist’s experiences reveal a sense of isolation as he grapples with the
pervasive nature of evil. He longs for genuine connections and compassion, yet
finds himself surrounded by individuals who prioritize their own interests
above all else. This sense of loneliness serves to reinforce the statement that
the world is filled with more evil than good.
The
Role of Hypocrisy
Another critical theme that
emerges from “Oru Manushyan” is the hypocrisy that pervades society. Many
characters who outwardly present themselves as morally upright and virtuous are
revealed to be engaged in unethical behavior. This duality reflects the complexity
of human nature, as individuals often wear masks to conceal their true
intentions.
The protagonist encounters
people who preach morality yet engage in dishonest practices behind closed
doors. This hypocrisy deepens his disillusionment, as he realizes that even
those who claim to uphold ethical standards often fall short. Basheer skillfully
illustrates how societal norms can be corrupted, leading to a pervasive sense
of distrust and cynicism.
This theme of hypocrisy
resonates with the notion that evil often masquerades as good, further
complicating the protagonist’s understanding of humanity. The clash between
appearances and reality serves as a powerful commentary on the complexities of
moral behavior in a flawed world.
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Moments
of Goodness
While “Oru Manushyan”
presents a bleak portrayal of society, it also features moments of goodness
that offer a glimmer of hope. The protagonist encounters individuals who embody
kindness and compassion, reminding him that not all is lost in the world. These
moments serve to counterbalance the pervasive evil, suggesting that goodness
exists even in the darkest of circumstances.
One such instance occurs
when the protagonist witnesses an act of selflessness. A stranger helps a needy
person in distress, showcasing the inherent goodness that can emerge in a world
marred by suffering. These moments serve as a reminder that while evil may
dominate, the capacity for kindness remains within humanity.
However, these instances of
goodness are often overshadowed by the surrounding negativity. The
protagonist’s struggle to hold onto hope amid despair reflects the internal
conflict that many individuals face in a world where evil appears to reign
supreme. This juxtaposition between good and evil serves as a poignant reminder
of the complexities of human nature.
The
Impact of Society
In “Oru Manushyan,” Basheer
explores how societal structures contribute to the prevalence of evil. The
protagonist’s experiences reveal a world where systemic injustices perpetuate
suffering and inequality. Corruption, exploitation, and indifference are deeply
entrenched in the fabric of society, making it challenging for individuals to
rise above their circumstances.
The protagonist’s
observations highlight how societal norms often prioritize profit over people,
leading to a culture of greed and selfishness. This environment fosters a sense
of hopelessness, making it difficult for individuals to resist the pull of evil.
The story serves as a critique of a society that values material gain over
ethical behavior, reinforcing the idea that evil often thrives in environments
devoid of compassion and empathy.
Furthermore, Basheer’s
portrayal of societal dynamics underscores the notion that evil is not merely
an individual failing but a collective issue. The protagonist grapples with the
reality that even those who desire goodness are often powerless against the
systemic forces that perpetuate evil. This realization adds a layer of
complexity to the statement that “the world has more evil than good,”
suggesting that societal structures play a significant role in shaping human
behavior.
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The
Search for Meaning
As the protagonist
navigates through the darkness of the world, he embarks on a quest for meaning
and purpose. He grapples with existential questions about the nature of good
and evil, seeking to understand his place in a seemingly indifferent universe. This
search for meaning becomes a driving force in the narrative, shaping the
protagonist’s character and his interactions with others.
The struggle for meaning is
emblematic of the human condition, as individuals often grapple with questions
of morality and existence in the face of adversity. The protagonist’s journey
reflects a broader philosophical inquiry into the nature of good and evil,
prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.
Ultimately, the
protagonist’s search for meaning leads him to confront the harsh realities of
the world. He grapples with the notion that while evil may dominate, the
pursuit of goodness remains a worthwhile endeavor. This realization serves as a
beacon of hope, suggesting that individuals can strive for goodness even in a
world filled with challenges.
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Conclusion:
The Duality of Humanity
In examining the statement
“the world has more evil than good” through the lens of “Oru Manushyan,” we are
confronted with the complexities of human nature. Basheer’s narrative reveals a
world where evil often overshadows goodness, highlighting the struggles
individuals face in navigating their moral compass.
The protagonist’s journey
serves as a reflection of the broader human experience, illustrating the
tension between good and evil that exists within each person. While the story
portrays a society plagued by corruption, hypocrisy, and indifference, it also
offers moments of hope and compassion that remind us of the inherent goodness
within humanity.
Ultimately, “Oru Manushyan”
invites readers to grapple with the duality of human nature. It challenges us
to recognize the prevalence of evil while simultaneously inspiring us to seek
out goodness in ourselves and others. In a world that often appears dark, the
story serves as a reminder that the pursuit of kindness and compassion is a
noble endeavor, one that can bring light even in the darkest of times.
