November 06, 2025
This blog is submitted as part of the coursework for Paper 201: Indian English Literature – Pre-Independence. . The focus of this assignmentn on Nationalism vs. Humanity in The Home and the Worlds.
Name : Shatakshi M. Sarvaiya
Paper 201 : Indian English Literature – Pre-Independence
Subject Code: 22406
Topic Name : Nationalism vs. Humanity in The Home and the World
Batch: M.A. Sem-3 (2024 -26)
Roll No: 26
Enrollment No: 5108240030
Email Address: shatakshisarvaiya9@gmail.com
Submitted to: Smt. S. B. Gardi, Department of English, M.K.B.U.
Nationalism vs. Humanity in The Home and the World
Introduction :
Rabindranath Tagore’s The Home and the World (first published in Bengali in 1916 and translated into English in 1921) is a powerful political and psychological novel set during the Swadeshi Movement in Bengal, which aimed to boycott foreign goods and promote Indian self-reliance. The novel goes beyond political slogans and explores the moral, emotional, and cultural consequences of nationalism. Tagore questions the dangers of aggressive nationalism and argues that humanity, love, and ethical responsibility must guide the nation’s progress. The conflict between Nationalism and Humanity is revealed through the contrasting philosophies of Sandip and Nikhil, while Bimala stands as the emotional and symbolic space where these ideologies clash.
The Idea of Nationalism in the Novel
The form of nationalism presented in the novel is not calm devotion to one’s country, but fiery, emotional, and aggressive nationalism. This form is represented by Sandip, a charismatic leader who believes that the nation requires passion, sacrifice, and even violence. For Sandip, the nation is a divine force, and any action done in its name is justified.
Sandip’s words are powerful and persuasive:
“I will not allow the country to lag behind due to soft-hearted scruples.”
This shows that his nationalism rejects moral limits. He uses emotional speeches to control crowds and manipulate individuals. He convinces people to burn foreign goods, even if it destroys the livelihoods of innocent villagers. He uses Bimala’s admiration to gain money and influence, showing that his nationalism is not pure love for the nation, but a tool of personal power.
Thus, Tagore presents Sandip as a symbol of nationalism without humanity, which becomes destructive, selfish, and violent.
Humanity and Ethical Consciousness
Humanity in the novel is represented by Nikhil, Bimala’s husband. Nikhil believes in truth, non-violence, and personal freedom. For him, nationalism should not be about forcing people into action, but about educating and uplifting them. He insists that the means used to achieve freedom must be moral, because immoral methods cannot create a just society.
Nikhil states:
“I am ready to serve my country, but my worship I reserve for truth. The country is only one of the gods that command my devotion.”
This shows that moral values are greater than political loyalty. Nikhil feels that if nationalism creates hatred, division, or suffering, then it is not worth supporting. He refuses to pressure Bimala or the villagers into political action, because he respects their individual dignity.
Therefore, Nikhil is the voice of Tagore himself, who believed that nationalism must remain guided by ethical and humanistic values.
Bimala: The Emotional Battlefield
Bimala represents the home (inner peace) and the world (political temptation).
At first, she admires Sandip because:
* He is bold and passionate.
* He speaks of freedom and glory.
* He awakens her national pride.
But gradually, she realizes:
* Sandip’s nationalism is not love, but greed and ego.
* His actions create violence, fear, and destruction.
* His influence makes her betray her own inner moral compass.
Bimala's journey reflects India’s own struggle:
* Between foreign influence and cultural identity
* Between heart and reason
* Between blind passion and thoughtful humanity
Her guilt and emotional suffering represent the moral cost of nationalism without compassion.
Nationalism vs. Humanity: A Moral and Political Conflict
In The Home and the World, Sandip represents a form of nationalism that believes the end justifies the means. His approach is emotional, aggressive, and forceful, and he relies on violence, manipulation, and pressure to achieve political goals. He symbolizes the outer world of chaos and ambition. In contrast, Nikhil stands for humanity, where the means must be moral. He remains calm, thoughtful, and gentle, choosing dialogue, patience, and respect instead of force. His goal is not power but human welfare and peace, and he symbolizes the inner world of truth and compassion. Thus, the conflict between Sandip and Nikhil shows the struggle between blind nationalism and ethical humanity.
Through this contrast, Tagore argues that:
* A nation cannot be built on hatred and greed.
* Humanity must guide nationalism, not the other way around.
* Love and ethics are stronger than violence and force.
Tagore’s Critique of Violent Nationalism
Tagore was writing at a time when many Indian freedom fighters believed violence was necessary to defeat colonial rule. However, Tagore feared that a nation born from violence would remain violent even after independence.
He warns that:
* Nationalism can become a new form of oppression.
* Leaders may use patriotism to gain personal power.
* Society may lose compassion and moral direction.
Thus, The Home and the World is not anti-national, but a warning that nationalism without humanity, wisdom, and love leads to destruction, division, and loss of dignity
Conclusion :
The Home and the World is a profound exploration of one of the greatest political and ethical conflicts: Should national duty be more important than human compassion?
Through Sandip and Nikhil, Tagore shows two opposing visions of the nation—one driven by passion and force, and the other by love and moral responsibility. Bimala’s emotional journey reveals the deep psychological impact of these competing ideologies.
In the end, Tagore teaches that a nation cannot be truly free unless its people value humanity above power, compassion above hatred, and truth above emotional frenzy.
Therefore, Humanity is the true foundation of a free nation.
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