The Narrative of War and Trauma: With Special Reference to the Urdu Novel

جنگ اور صدمے کا بیانیہ: اردو ناول کے خصوصی تناظر میں

Abstract

The relationship between war, trauma, and the Urdu novel is not merely confined to the depiction of external conflicts; rather, it reflects the inner disintegration of human beings, psychological unrest, and social collapse. Urdu novelists have portrayed war not only as a military confrontation but also as a source of fear, deprivation, identity crisis, and emotional suffering. In Qila Jangi, presents the human tragedy, cultural devastation, and political consequences of the Afghan war in a deeply powerful manner. Similarly, in Paharon Ka Beta, highlights the helplessness and sacrifices of people living in war-affected regions. , in her novel Main Dehshat Gard Hoon?, explores the identity crisis and psychological trauma produced by the discourse of terrorism and war. Likewise, in Jang, Jurm aur Jazbat portrays the moral decline, emotional conflicts, and criminal dimensions associated with wartime conditions. These novels collectively demonstrate that war is not fought only on borders; its devastating effects penetrate the human mind, soul, and social structure. The Urdu novel, therefore, emerges as a powerful narrative medium for preserving and expressing the traumatic experiences of war and violence.