Exploring Identity and Alienation in Han Shaogong’s ‘The Bastard’ (孽子)

Introduction

The exploration of identity and alienation is a profound thematic concern in contemporary literature, particularly within the context of societal change and personal turmoil. Han Shaogong’s novel “The Bastard” (孽子) serves as a compelling narrative that delves into these themes against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving Chinese society. The purpose of this report is to analyze how Han Shaogong articulates the complexities of identity formation and the pervasive sense of alienation experienced by individuals in a transitional social landscape. By examining the characters and their interactions, as well as the socio-cultural dynamics that frame their experiences, we can gain insight into the broader implications of identity and alienation in the context of globalization and modernity.

Main Body

At the heart of “The Bastard” lies the struggle for identity amid the disorienting effects of modernization. The protagonist, who grapples with his