CULTURAL IDENTITY AND COLONIAL LEGACY IN RED ISLAND HOUSE: A POSTCOLONIAL STUDY

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Lee's Red Island House through the frameworks of Delgado's race theory and Fanon's theory of colonialism. It explores the themes of race, colonialism, and cultural identity that foreground the social construction of race and offers a robust framework for analyzing the characters' experiences. Integrating these theoretical perspectives sheds light on how characters negotiate their identities and relational dynamics within the postcolonial context of Madagascar. Lee's narrative, set against the backdrop of a vacation home on the island, is enriched with this dual-theoretical approach, offering a more nuanced interpretation of the text. The interplay between race, colonialism, and cultural identity highlights the multifaceted nature of the characters' journeys. Shay, an African American professor, and her Italian husband, Senna, encounter various sociocultural dynamics that challenge their perceptions and beliefs. Shay's evolving relationship with Madagascar and its people reflects a complex negotiation of identity and belonging, shaped by the country's racial and colonial histories. The novel's exploration of race, gender, and cultural exchange is thus situated within a broader discourse on identity and postcolonial theory. By analyzing the intricacies of the characters' experiences through Delgado's and Fanon's theories, this study highlights the enduring impact of racial and colonial legacies on personal and cultural identities. Thus, the comprehensive analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the novel's thematic richness and its relevance to contemporary discussions of race and post-colonialism.