Volume V Special Issue IV October 2025

Name of Author : Ms. M. Ponkavithamani, Dr. Julie Elizabeth. A

Title of the paper : Exploration of Gender Based Violencein Shashi Deshpandes Novels: The Dark Holds No Terrors and That Long Silence

Abstract: This paper explores the issue of gender based violence in Shashi Deshpandes novels The Dark Holds No Terrors and That Long Silence, emphasizing the psychological, emotional, and societal aspects of female oppression within patriarchal Indian society. Both stories focus on educated, middle class women grappling with domestic violence, emotional disregard, and the internalized silence enforced by traditional gender roles. Through the characters of Sarita and Jaya, Deshpande demonstrates how systemic patriarchy sustains gendered violence not only through physical actions but also via emotional manipulation and societal expectations. The analysis explores the complex portrayal of trauma, resilience, and the quest for identity, shedding light on the frequently unheard experiences of women. Through an analysis of the characters internal struggles and their path to self discovery, the paper illustrates how Deshpande confronts the societal acceptance of female suffering and promotes self expression and independence as forms of resistance.

Keywords : Gender based violence, Patriarchy, Domestic abuse, psychological trauma, Female identity.

DOI :

Page Number : 48-52