Lecture on the Subaltern Concept in Post-Colonial Studies
Introduction
- Topic: Subaltern, a complex concept in post-colonial studies.
- Origin: Introduced by Italian Marxist, Antonio Gramsci, in his "Prison Notebooks."
Gramsci's Concept of the Subaltern
- Subaltern Definition: Groups/classes that are not unified; cannot unite until they become a state.
- Characteristics:
- Exist within a dominant hegemonic order but have no political space.
- Their history is intertwined with civil society and the history of states.
- They lack a unified political voice and are kept divided.
- Stages of Subaltern Study: Gramsci outlines six stages from the beginning of their history to them "coming to voice."
Hegemony and Politics
- Hegemony: Established through willing consent of the governed.
- Subaltern Position: Outside the hegemonic project; their voices are not heard.
- Political Project: Involves giving voice to subalterns by recording and retrieving their histories.
Subaltern in Post-Colonial Studies
- Colonial Context: Dominant histories are often European; post-colonial studies seek to retrieve local histories.
- Subaltern Studies Group:
- Led by Ranjith Guha.
- Focuses on silenced histories in Indian historiography.
- Critiques mainstream historiography for ignoring the subaltern.
Spivak's Contribution
- Essay: "Can the Subaltern Speak?"
- Argument: Challenges the assumption that subalterns can speak for themselves.
- Key Points:
- Critiques Foucault and Deleuze for neglecting global labor divisions.
- Advocates for intellectuals to politically represent subalterns.
- Introduces strategic essentialism.
Challenges in Understanding Subaltern
- Misconceptions:
- Subaltern status often confused with simply being oppressed.
- Misuse by privileged minorities claiming subaltern status.
Conclusion
- Summary: Subalterns are those without political voice or agency within a hegemonic order.
- Resources: Additional resources and articles suggested for further reading.
Further Engagement
- Invitation: Subscribe and comment for more insights and questions.
These notes aim to provide a coherent summary of the complex discussions surrounding the concept of the subaltern, its origins, and its implications in post-colonial studies.