The Burden of Choice: A Study of Hegemonic Masculinity and Existentialism in Aravind Adiga's The White Tiger

Patriarchy constructs masculinity through norms of dominance and invulnerability. Yet, this rigid framework entrenches men in cyclical patterns of emotional suppression and moral self-erasure, revealing the paradoxical violence inherent in gendered power structures. The paper analyses the embedded masculinity and resultant existential crisis in the narrative The White Tiger with cross references to R.W. Connell's theory of hegemonic masculinity. Hegemonic masculinity puts forth that patriarchal power structures impose dominant ideals of male behaviour like gendered autonomy, all forms of domestic control, and aggression. The theoretical framework challenges both Balram's violent rejection of subordinated masculinity and his belief in capitalist ambition. Balram's assertion of his independence in a society that is plagued by caste and class is portrayed in the narrative through his journey from a lower-caste servant to an independent businessman. Connell's idea reflects how Balram's opposition to the circumstances of poverty forces his choices. Adiga explores different arenas of traditional masculinities to show how social inequality forces marginalised men to transform their identities. In keeping with Balram's existential awakening and his belief that ‘manhood’ is defined by wealth and autonomy, Connell argues that hegemonic masculinity is performed and acquired through oppressive systems rather than being innate. According to Connell's theory, the analysis shows that Balram's performance of hegemonic masculinity is inextricably linked to his existential quest for freedom. The paradox of ‘success’ in an unequal society is revealed by his journey: in order to break free from subordination, he has to replicate the very structures that dehumanised him. The paper examines the portrayal of embedded masculinity and the ensuing existential crisis in The White Tiger.