Transmission of Cultural Memory in Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Mistress of Spices

Abstract

Cultural memory and oral traditions have a significant role in shaping the narrative and cultural identity of the characters. As a dynamic form of expression it preserves history, shapes identities and fosters community across innumerable generations. It would be fitting to point out that the legacy of oral tradition always remains as an important aspect of human creativity and its manifestations. Among various writers displaying interest on myth and culture, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni occupies a commendable position as an Indian American author. Her novels strive to bridge the cultural traditions by exploring the themes of identity, immigration and intersection of myth and modernity. Tilo, the protagonist in The Mistress of Spices deeply rooted in Indian culture is quite familiar with the stories passed down to various generations. The spices in the novel narrate their own stories with remarkable power. The narrative also often goes back forth to remind of the words of the Old One, which is also based on oral transmission of existing knowledge. Blending of elements of mythology in a lyrical style magnifies the cadence and rhythm of traditional oral tales. This paper aims to point out the impact of cultural memory and oral traditions in shaping the magnificent tapestry of English literature with reference to the novel The Mistress of Spices. It also highlights how magical elements and myths are employed to portray cultural narratives and the varied immigrant experiences. It also emphasizes the role of spices as symbols with cultural memory and significance.