36th Annual Student Research Conference
Radicalization and its Consequences in Kamila Shamsie’s Home Fire
Alex J. Potter
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
In a post- 9/11 and 7/7 world, Muslim identity is often made synonymous with the term “terrorist.” This paper examines how the portrayal of Parvaiz Pasha in Kamila Shamsie's Home Fire illuminates the process of radicalization. Emotional manipulation is a persuasive tactic used within this process, which is shown through Farooq’s exploitation of Adil Pasha’s image and the promise of work in the Islamic State’s media wing. Furthermore, Parvaiz’s uncertainty about his future and his dissatisfaction with life leaves him susceptible to radicalization. His ultimate decision to join the Islamic State leads to disastrous consequences for both himself and his family, which cannot be avoided even after he becomes de-radicalized. Through the transformation of Parvaiz from working as a greengrocer’s assistant to assisting in the filming of executions, Shamsie’s novel becomes an explanation of the mechanics of radicalization and its consequences.
Keywords: Radicalization, De-radicalization, Emotional manipulation, Terrorism, Muslim identity
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 306-2
Location: SUB 3202
Time: 1:30