International Journal of Research in Arts and Science
ISSN: 2394-9759 | Frequency: 4 Issues/Year
Impact Factor: 0.387 | International Scientific Indexing(ISI) calculate based on International Citation Report(ICR)
Magical Realism and Historical Memory: Narrating Justice, Power, and Trauma in The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
Abstract:
Magical Realist analysis of The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende, specifically in relation to historical memory. The novel describes the story of the True family throughout multiple generations, all within the context of changing times in Latin American society and politics (Flores, 1955). The author uses the supernatural powers of one of the characters, Clara, to unite magic and realism in order to reveal deeper meanings. In fact, the ability of Clara to prophesize, maintain her silence and be in touch with the spirits allows the novel to step out of realism and deal with memory through various symbols. The key element in understanding the theme of historical memory in the novel is Clara’s tendency to keep journals. These journals become essential for remembering personal tragedies, social inequalities and political oppression in time of war and dictatorships. In summary, magical realism can be employed to capture and preserve a history that would otherwise be sidelined or overlooked due to lack of documentation in formal records. In the present study, the analysis is extended to incorporate the problems described in the book into broader world objectives of equality, justice, and social progress. First of all, through the life of Clara, there occurs a hidden resistance against the oppression of males. Other scenes in the narrative also reveal class struggle and social injustice. Finally, oppression and violation of human rights depicted in the book highlight the need for justice and democracy. In general, the current research finds that the use of magical realism in The House of the Spirits goes beyond a literary style and serves as a significant strategy to preserve historical legacy and highlight gender discrimination and social injustice.
Keywords: Magical Realism, Historical Memory, Social Justice, Gender Inequality, Political Oppression.
Volume: 12 | Issue: 1
Pages: 19-22
Issue Date: June , 2026
DOI: 10.9756/IJRAS/V12I1/BIJ26010
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