GENDER DISCRIMINATION IN KIRAN DESAI’S 'THE INHERITANCE OF LOSS' AND MONIKA ALI’S 'BRICK LANE' (Pages 196-210) by Ms. N. Shabnam Niher in THE ENGLISH RESEARCH EXPRESS / ISSN:2321-1164 (Online); 2347-2642 (Print)

The two novels comprise themes like migration, multiculturalism, religion, cultural aspects, economic inequality, fundamentalism and terrorist violence. These issues are not new, and they are more relevant than ever in the dynamic picture of the world today. This comparison should therefore be of interest to others as well. Migration has been a major theme throughout history. The reasons for migration have varied, but climatic, social, religious, cultural and financial factors have been important. In general, the common aim of migration has been to improve one’s future prospects through education and work. The issues of race, class and gender, are important factors in this connection. After decolonization, many people from the Third World and former colonized countries migrated to the West in order to secure a better future for themselves and their families back home. From the industrialized countries’ point of view, the immigrants have helped out in an increasing demand for labour. However, the multicultural societies of today have also been a challenge. Prejudice and intolerance, especially in connection with differences in race and ethnicity, have been demanding and problematic. Due to variation in cultural and religious background, gender roles have proven difficult in relation to western ideals and other cultures. Finally, the question of class has been of significance – both in respect of professional skills and social status in the country of origin, but also regarding how immigrants settle and integrate into a new country. Keywords: migration, multiculturalism, religion, cultural aspects, economic inequality, fundamentalism, intolerance, decolonization and discrimination.