How is the idea of the importance of names developed in this selection in the book by any other name

Answer 1

In the book "By Any Other Name" by Santha Rama Rau, the importance of names is developed through the experiences of the protagonist, Santha, and the way she is forced to adapt to a new name and identity.

At the beginning of the selection, Santha's father realizes that their Indian names will mark them as outsiders in the predominantly English environment of the school they will be attending. This highlights how names can be a symbol of cultural identity and can affect one's sense of belonging. As a result, Santha and her sister Premila are given new names, Cynthia and Pamela, respectively, in order to assimilate better into their new school.

Throughout the story, the new names become a source of constant reminders of their changed identities. Santha, especially, struggles with her new name as it represents a detachment from her Indian heritage and the cultural customs she is accustomed to. It becomes a constant reminder of her otherness and the pressure to conform to the British way of life.

Furthermore, the importance of names is also evident in the way Santha's teacher consistently mispronounces their new names, emphasizing the significance of proper pronunciation and the respect that comes with it. This reinforces the idea that names hold power and can influence how one is perceived by others.

Towards the end of the selection, Santha's father advises her to hold onto her Indian name, suggesting that one's true identity and sense of self should not be compromised for the sake of assimilation. This sparks a realization for Santha about the significance of names and the importance of embracing one's cultural heritage.

Overall, the development of the importance of names in this selection highlights the struggle of identity and the pressure to conform that Santha experiences. It underscores how names can both shape and challenge one's sense of self, and emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's cultural background and identity.