Mastering the Tradition of Hindi Autobiography (Atm-katha)

Understanding the history and critical theory behind Hindi autobiography (Atm-katha) is essential for serious study of modern Indian literature. This course provides a structured, comprehensive guide to the narrative tradition of self-writing in Hindi. By reading and analyzing key texts, you will develop the critical skills necessary to identify major milestones, understand genre characteristics, and interpret diverse perspectives within the genre. What you'll learn: * Understand the definition, origins, and foundational works of Atm-katha in Hindi literature. * Trace the historical evolution of the genre and identify major periods and authorial voices. * Analyze the distinct characteristics and critical reception of Dalit and women's autobiographies. * Practice applying modern literary critical frameworks to interpret complex self-narratives. * Identify and differentiate between various forms of self-writing, including memoirs and biographical sketches. The course begins with foundational definitions and historical context, then moves chronologically through major works. The second half is dedicated to focused study of specific subgenres, providing detailed analysis techniques for critical reading. This course is designed for absolute beginners in Hindi literary studies or those seeking a foundational overview of the autobiography tradition. No prior advanced knowledge of literary theory is required. Start reading and analyzing the rich tradition of Hindi self-narrative today.