THE COLONIAL VIOLENCE: A READING OF LEILA SEBBAR'S LA SEINE ÉTAIT ROUGE

This article explores Leila Sebbar's La Seine Était Rouge through the lens of the subaltern framework within postcolonial theory. The novel examines the enduring impacts of colonial violence on Algerian identities, particularly through the lens of the 1961 Paris Massacre. Set against a backdrop of personal narratives intertwined with historical context, the novel explores themes of displacement, cultural memory, and the trauma of colonial oppression. Through characters such as Amel and Omer, Sebbar illustrates the complexities of navigating post-colonial identities marked by alienation and a yearning for belonging. The narrative employs a fragmented style, reflecting both individual and collective trauma, as characters confront their shared history and the violence that has shaped their lives. Sebbar's portrayal of women highlights their resilience amidst suffering, suggesting that storytelling becomes a powerful form of resistance against erasure. By amplifying marginalized voices and emphasizing the psychological ramifications of colonialism, La Seine était rouge invites readers to critically engage with the legacies of violence and the necessity of reclaiming identity. Ultimately, the novel advocates for understanding and healing through the acknowledgment of painful histories, positioning Sebbar as a vital voice in post-colonial discourse. Sebbar not only recounts a significant historical event but also fosters a collective journey toward reconciliation and recognition of those impacted by colonial violence.