Han Kang Wins Nobel Prize: South Korean novelist Han Kang has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature for her profound works that explore human existence, trauma, and the fragility of life.
Major Works:Her notable books include The Vegetarian, Human Acts, The White Book, and Greek Lessons, each addressing themes like autonomy, political violence, grief, and identity.
Historical Traumas: Han Kang’s writing often reflects on South Korea’s violent past, such as the Gwangju Uprising, highlighting the scars left by collective trauma.
Global Impact: Her work transcends national boundaries, resonating with readers worldwide and affirming her place in contemporary world literature.
What is the news?
In a remarkable recognition of literary excellence, the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to South Korean novelist Han Kang, a writer whose profound works have left an indelible mark on global literature.
Han Kang, aged 53, is known for her intense poetic prose that delves deep into human existence, trauma, and the fragile nature of life.
The Nobel committee commended her work for its exploration of historical traumas and its portrayal of the vulnerability of the human condition.
Han Kang’s Literary Contributions
Han Kang’s body of work is both diverse and thought-provoking, tackling difficult and often painful subjects. Her major works include The Vegetarian, Human Acts, The White Book, and Greek Lessons. Each of these books presents a unique narrative style, blending poetic language with a deep philosophical exploration of human emotions, societal violence, and existential suffering.
The Vegetarian (2007):Perhaps her most internationally recognized work, this novel explores a woman’s decision to stop eating meat and the psychological and social consequences that follow. It is a meditation on autonomy, oppression, and the breakdown of relationships, set against the backdrop of patriarchal society.
Human Acts (2014):This novel is set during the 1980 Gwangju Uprising in South Korea and examines the horrors of political violence. Through multiple perspectives, the novel highlights how individuals and society are scarred by collective trauma.
The White Book (2016):A deeply personal work, this novel blends fiction and autobiography. It meditates on life, death, and grief, focusing on the death of Han’s sister as an infant. It is a reflection on mourning and the symbolic nature of the color white.
Greek Lessons (2011): A poignant story about loss, language, and identity. It explores themes of silence, communication, and the struggle to reclaim one’s voice after profound personal loss.
Exploring Historical Traumas and Fragility in Human Life
The Nobel committee’s citation of Han Kang’s “intense poetic prose” speaks to her ability to transform the personal and collective pain of human experience into art. Through her work, Han Kang confronts historical traumas, particularly those connected to South Korea’s violent past, such as the Gwangju Uprising and the authoritarian regime of the 1980s.
Her work often reflects a deep sensitivity to the fragility of human life, weaving together stories of personal despair, violence, and the human desire for freedom. Her novels are not only literary achievements but also poignant social commentaries that question the structures of power, identity, and survival.
Global Impact and Literary Significance
Han Kang’s work transcends national boundaries and resonates globally. Her novels have been translated into multiple languages, bringing her philosophical insights into the human condition to readers across the world. The recognition of her work with the Nobel Prize underscores the universal themes she addresses and affirms her place as a major voice in contemporary world literature.
The Nobel Prize in Literature: History and Procedure
The Nobel Prize in Literature is one of the five original prizes established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, in 1895. Since 1901, the Swedish Academy has awarded the prize annually to authors, poets, and playwrights whose work has made an outstanding contribution to literature. Over the years, the prize has recognized a diverse range of writers from various literary traditions and cultures.
History of the Nobel Prize in Literature
The first Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded in 1901 to the French poet and essayist Sully Prudhomme. Since then, the prize has been awarded to writers such as Ernest Hemingway, Gabriel García Márquez, Rabindranath Tagore, Toni Morrison, and Orhan Pamuk, among many others. It is considered one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world and has often been a platform to celebrate both literary excellence and socio-political issues.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Nobel Prize in Literature is rigorous and confidential:
Nominations: Nominations are submitted by members of the Swedish Academy, previous laureates, and professors of literature from various universities worldwide. The names of nominees are kept secret for 50 years.
Review and Consideration:A committee of experts within the Swedish Academy reviews the nominations and creates a shortlist of candidates. This process involves careful reading, analysis, and debate.
Decision: The final decision is made by the Swedish Academy, consisting of 18 members, who vote to select the laureate. The winner must receive more than half of the votes.
Announcement and Award: The laureate is announced in October, and the prize is awarded in December in a ceremony held in Stockholm, Sweden.
Importance of the Nobel Prize
The Nobel Prize is more than just an award for literary excellence—it often serves as recognition of the power of literature to shape societies, challenge oppressive structures, and give voice to the silenced. Authors who receive the Nobel often bring attention to political, cultural, and social issues, inspiring dialogue and reflection across the globe.
Conclusion: A Global Literary Milestone
Han Kang’s Nobel Prize win is a testament to the profound influence literature has in addressing historical traumas and universal human experiences. Her poetic prose, steeped in empathy and insight, has earned her a well-deserved place among the world’s greatest literary figures. For UPSC aspirants, Han Kang’s work provides an important lens through which to understand not only the power of literature but also the socio-political realities it reflects. Furthermore, the Nobel Prize itself is a key topic for examination as it links international recognition with cultural diplomacy, literature, and global intellectual discourse.
Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants:
International Relations and Diplomacy: The Nobel Prize serves as a bridge between countries and cultures, promoting intellectual exchanges.
Cultural History: Understanding the role of literature and arts in shaping historical narratives and societal values.
Ethics in Literature:Han Kang’s work exemplifies the ethical responsibility of literature in addressing human suffering and violence.
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1 / 5
Category:General Studies
What is the primary language of Han Kang’s literary works that earned her the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature?
Answer: c) Korean
Explanation: Han Kang writes primarily in Korean. Her works have been widely translated into various languages, but her original literary expression is in Korean, reflecting South Korean historical and cultural themes.
2 / 5
Category:General Studies
Han Kang's 2024 Nobel Prize-winning works focus on which of the following themes?
Answer: b) Historical trauma and human fragility
Explanation: The Nobel committee praised Han Kang’s work for its poetic prose that delves into historical traumas and the vulnerability of human life, key themes in her novels such as The Vegetarian and Human Acts.
3 / 5
Category:General Studies
Which of the following best describes the Nobel Committee's rationale for awarding Han Kang the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature?
Answer: b) Her poetic prose that confronts historical trauma and exposes the fragility of human life
Explanation: The Nobel Committee awarded Han Kang for her “intense poetic prose” that grapples with historical traumas and human vulnerability, as reflected in her works like The Vegetarian and Human Acts.
4 / 5
Category:General Studies
Which of the following works is NOT authored by Han Kang?
Answer: d) The God of Small Things
Explanation: The God of Small Things is written by Indian author Arundhati Roy. Han Kang's notable works include The Vegetarian, The White Book, Human Acts, and Greek Lessons.
5 / 5
Category:General Studies
Which of the following South Korean novelists won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature?
Answer: b) Han Kang
Explanation: Han Kang, a South Korean novelist, won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature for her "intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life."
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Discuss the significance of Han Kang’s works in the context of world literature, particularly focusing on how her writing addresses themes of historical trauma and human fragility. How does her literary contribution reflect broader socio-political issues?(250 Words)
Model Answer:
Han Kang, the 2024 Nobel Prize winner in Literature, is recognized for her “intense poetic prose” that tackles the delicate themes of human fragility and historical trauma. Her novels, including The Vegetarian and Human Acts, have had a profound impact on global literature.
Themes of Historical Trauma:
Han Kang’s works, particularly Human Acts, confront the Gwangju Uprising, a suppressed chapter of South Korean history. Through the lens of personal suffering and societal violence, she gives voice to victims of political oppression.
Her exploration of historical traumas emphasizes how such events leave long-lasting scars on both the collective psyche and individual lives, making her work universally relatable to readers from nations with similar histories of trauma.
Portrayal of Human Fragility:
Han Kang portrays human vulnerability, exploring the fragile boundary between normalcy and madness. In The Vegetarian, she uses the story of a woman’s rejection of societal norms to explore the effects of patriarchal pressures, isolation, and trauma.
This fragility resonates on a global scale, addressing fundamental questions about identity, freedom, and the body in contexts shaped by both personal and collective trauma.
Socio-political Reflections in Her Work:
Han Kang’s works often reflect South Korea’s turbulent political history and societal challenges, such as authoritarianism, gender inequality, and the suppression of dissent.
Through her deeply personal narratives, she critiques authoritarian control and social conformity, providing a window into the broader socio-political environment of South Korea in the late 20th century, which has parallels in many global contexts.
Han Kang’s literary contribution transcends national borders by presenting stories that speak to universal human experiences. Her works stand out in world literature for addressing historical trauma and human fragility with emotional depth, making her a deserving recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize.
Question 2:
Critically analyze the importance of the Nobel Prize in Literature in shaping global literary trends. How does the recognition of non-Western authors like Han Kang reflect the changing landscape of world literature?(250 Words)
Model Answer:
The Nobel Prize in Literature is one of the most prestigious global recognitions for literary achievement. Over the years, the Nobel Committee has awarded authors from diverse cultural backgrounds, influencing literary trends worldwide. The recognition of South Korean author Han Kang in 2024 highlights the shift toward a more inclusive appreciation of non-Western literature.
Global Influence of the Nobel Prize in Literature:
The Nobel Prize often serves as a platform to introduce lesser-known authors and literary traditions to global audiences. Winners like Han Kang, whose works reflect South Korea’s socio-cultural milieu, gain international recognition and readership.
The prize has historically shaped literary trends by recognizing authors who address universal themes such as war, trauma, human rights, and existentialism, influencing subsequent literary movements.
Recognition of Non-Western Authors:
The Nobel Prize’s increasing acknowledgment of non-Western authors like Han Kang reflects a shift from a Eurocentric literary canon toward a more diverse and inclusive representation of global narratives.
Han Kang’s win highlights the value of literary works that explore non-Western histories and experiences, such as the South Korean Gwangju Uprising in Human Acts, making these stories accessible to a wider, international audience.
Impact on World Literature:
Recognizing non-Western authors enriches world literature by bringing varied cultural perspectives, unique narrative styles, and underrepresented historical events to the forefront.
Authors like Han Kang challenge traditional Western literary forms, using a more poetic and introspective style to address themes like trauma, identity, and resilience. This broadens the scope of world literature and encourages other writers from diverse backgrounds to explore and share their stories.
The Nobel Prize in Literature continues to play a crucial role in shaping global literary trends by recognizing diverse voices. Han Kang’s 2024 win symbolizes a broader acknowledgment of non-Western literature, reflecting the evolving landscape of world literature toward greater inclusivity and representation.
Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective. Read entire UPSC Current Affairs.
Relevance to the UPSC Prelims and Mains syllabus under the following topics:
Prelims:
General Studies Paper I:Current Affairs: The announcement of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature is a significant event that can be asked in Prelims as a part of current affairs. Questions can revolve around the recipient, their works, and the Nobel Prize itself.
Relevant Syllabus Area: Events of national and international importance.
Art and Culture:World Literature: Han Kang’s works such as The Vegetarian and Human Acts contribute to world literature, and her recognition can lead to questions about literary contributions from non-Western authors, especially in terms of themes such as historical trauma and socio-political reflections.
Relevant Syllabus Area: Indian and World Literature.
Mains:
General Studies Paper I (Mains):Indian and World History (Themes of Social Change, Cultural Influence):Han Kang’s works focus on historical traumas, which resonates with themes of social change and collective memory. UPSC can ask about world literature’s role in reflecting and addressing historical events and traumas.
Relevant Syllabus Area: History of the world will include events from the 18th century such as world wars, industrial revolution, and redrawal of national boundaries—how they impact literature can be discussed.
Society:The exploration of social issues like trauma, gender identity, and socio-political conflict in Han Kang’s works aligns with the study of social issues in literature. Her works can be used to discuss how literature shapes and reflects social norms.
Relevant Syllabus Area: Salient features of Indian society and diversity of India.
General Studies Paper II (Mains):International Relations (Soft Power and Diplomacy):
The Nobel Prize, as a prestigious global recognition, plays a role in soft power diplomacy. A question could relate to how cultural achievements (like a Nobel Prize) enhance a country’s global standing.
Relevant Syllabus Area: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests and international institutions.
General Studies Paper IV (Mains):Ethics and Integrity:
Literature often plays a significant role in highlighting ethical and moral dilemmas. Han Kang’s novels address the human condition, ethical questions about violence, and historical wrongs, which can be linked to the study of ethics.
Relevant Syllabus Area: Human Values—lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers, and administrators.
Essay Paper (Mains):
An essay on the role of literature in reflecting historical trauma or the impact of global awards like the Nobel Prize on world culture would be directly relevant to this topic. Han Kang’s works offer a platform for discussing broader themes like human resilience, fragility, and the collective memory of societies.
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