The Development of V. S. Naipaul as a Writer

Abstract

This thesis explores the themes prevalent in the novels of V. S. Naipaul and examines his development from a regional writer to one with a more universal appeal. In Chapter One an attempt is made to establish a critical background by briefly discussing the ideas revealed in his non-fictional works. Chapter One also discussed the themes of the early novels, The Mystic Masseur, The Suffrage of Elvira and Miguel Street. Chapter Two of this thesis deals with the themes of A House for Mr. Biswas and Mr. Stone and the Knights Companion. These novels are seen as representing a turning point in Naipaul's development as a writer. Chapter Three focuses on The Mimic Men and "A Flag on the Island", and sees these two works as representing a bleaker but more philosophical mood by the author. In A Free State is examined in the final Chapter of this thesis and Naipaul's effectiveness is evaluated.