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Mina Harker: A Quiet Force in Gothic Literature

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Mina Harker: A Quiet Force in Gothic Literature First introduced in Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1897), Wilhelmina “Mina” Harker emerges not just as a central figure in a vampire thriller, but as an early example of a composed, intelligent, and emotionally grounded woman in gothic fiction. While often overshadowed by the dark charisma of Count Dracula, Mina's strength lies in her subtle defiance of Victorian expectations. 🔹 She’s the emotional and intellectual anchor of the group While the male characters often flounder in fear or fury, Mina remains calm, organized, and empathetic—serving as the glue that holds the vampire-hunting team together. 🔹 She embraces knowledge in a man’s world Mina types, researches, and compiles journal entries—effectively acting as a proto-detective and archivist. She contributes just as much to the mission through intellect as the men do with their weapons. 🔹 She balances logic and compassion Unlike other gothic heroines who are either fainting...

Jane Eyre: A Strong Classic Female Protagonist

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Jane Eyre: A Strong Classic Female Protagonist In the vast landscape of 19th-century literature, Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë stands tall—not just as a gothic romance, but as a pioneering exploration of a woman’s inner strength, independence, and moral integrity. The book  Jane Eyre  was published in 1847 and its titular female lead character is one that continues to create an impact till date.   Here’s why Jane Eyre remains one of the most compelling female protagonists in classic literature: 🔹 She defines strength beyond physicality Jane’s power lies not in grand gestures or rebellion, but in quiet resilience. She endures emotional neglect, poverty, and heartbreak, yet never lets these break her spirit or values. 🔹 She asserts her moral compass, always From refusing Mr. Rochester’s proposal when it compromises her self-respect, to walking away from comfort for the sake of principle—Jane’s decisions are bold acts of inner strength and ethical clarity....

Kafkaesque

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Kafkaesque The term "Kafkaesque" is typically used to define situations that are surreal, lacking reason, or nightmarishly complicated. They often involve a sense of powerlessness and frustration. The term is inspired by the works of Franz Kafka, a writer known for his stories where characters face bizarre, oppressive, and absurd circumstances, often within bureaucratic systems. These stories make the characters feel trapped, confused, and unable to escape or understand the forces acting against them, even if they try. So, when something is described as "Kafkaesque," it usually means it is strangely perplexing, overwhelming, and hopeless in a way that leaves someone feeling disoriented or helpless. The "Kafkaesque" phenomenon, characterized by absurdity, powerlessness, and nightmarish complexity, can be found in many works of literature beyond Franz Kafka's own writing.  Here are some key examples: 1. George Orwell's 1984 Orwell’s novel explores a ...

Fatwa

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What Is Fatwa? ' Fatwa ' is an Arabic term that refers to a formal ruling that is typically issued as a response to questions or concerns raised by individuals or communities who seek guidance related to religious, ethical, social, or legal matters. The interpretations are then made through the Islamic law and are given by qualified Islamic scholar or jurist (also called, mufti ). The ultimate motive is that the decision is made or actions are taken in accordance to the Islamic principles.  Fatwas have had an important role in the Islamic history and proved to have taken new forms as per the modern times. The rules surrounding it may not necessarily be universally binding, but are important to be abided by those following the particular school of thought or legal tradition of the issuing scholar. The scope and significance of every Fatwa could differ from the other, spanning from everyday guidance to important and stricter declarations.  In the modern times, Fatwas h...