FREE IGNOU MEG-08 SOLVED ASSIGNMENT 2023-24
8. Characters in “The Solid Mandala” Reflecting Themes:
“The Solid Mandala” by Patrick White is a novel that intricately weaves together the lives of two contrasting brothers, Waldo and Arthur Brown. The characters in the novel serve as mirrors for the thematic exploration of identity, spirituality, and the human search for meaning.
Waldo and Arthur embody contrasting aspects of human nature. Waldo is analytical, intellectual, and detached from emotional connections. His pursuit of knowledge and understanding reflects the theme of intellectual isolation and the struggle to connect with others on a deeper level. His obsession with the solid mandala, a mathematical construct, mirrors his desire for order and permanence in a chaotic world.
On the other hand, Arthur is a more instinctual and emotional character. His artistic pursuits and his deep connection with nature emphasize the theme of spirituality and the search for transcendence. Arthur’s experiences in nature and his connection with the Aboriginal man, Noonuccal, signify a yearning for a deeper understanding of existence beyond the material world.
The brothers’ complex relationship reflects the theme of duality and the inherent contradictions within the human psyche. Their interactions, marked by tension and rivalry, mirror the internal struggle between reason and intuition, intellect and emotion. This theme of duality is further emphasized by the novel’s title, which alludes to the concept of the mandala as a symbol of unity and wholeness.
The supporting characters in the novel also contribute to the thematic exploration. Miss Docker, for instance, represents the longing for love and acceptance. Her infatuation with Waldo and her desire to be seen reflect the human need for connection and validation. The character of Father Waldo exemplifies the tension between religious devotion and human desires, highlighting the theme of spirituality versus worldly temptations.
In conclusion, the characters in “The Solid Mandala” are intricately woven into the fabric of the novel’s themes. Waldo and Arthur, along with the supporting cast, serve as vehicles through which Patrick White explores the complexities of human identity, spirituality, and the perpetual search for significance. Their interactions and individual journeys mirror the broader existential questions that resonate with readers beyond the confines of the narrative.
