"Decoding Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island: A Study of Myths, Climate, and Migration"
FL Activity: Gun Island
Flipped Learning Activity Instructions: Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh
"Decoding Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island: A Study of Myths, Climate, and Migration"
Introduction:
Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island intricately weaves together themes of migration, climate change, and human connections, much like his earlier novel The Hungry Tide. The novel follows Dinanath "Deen" Datta, a rare-book dealer based in New York, who finds himself drawn back to the Sundarbans in West Bengal in pursuit of an age-old legend surrounding Bonduki Sadagar, a 17th-century merchant known as the “Gun Merchant.” According to folklore, Bonduki Sadagar was relentlessly pursued by Manasa Devi, the goddess of snakes, as a form of divine reckoning meant to humble his greed and force him to recognize the power and fragility of the natural world.
As Deen delves deeper into the legend, he comes to an intriguing realization: the name “Bonduki Sadagar” may not actually refer to a gun merchant, but rather “the Merchant who went to Venice,” since Venice was historically known as al-Bunduqevya. This linguistic and historical revelation propels Deen on a journey that takes him beyond the Sundarbans to the labyrinthine canals of Venice. There, he witnesses firsthand the plight of Bangladeshi migrants struggling to survive in a foreign land, facing harsh labor conditions, xenophobia, and the dangers of displacement. Their uncertain and perilous existence starkly contrasts with the prosperity and privilege enjoyed by traders like Bonduki Sadagar centuries ago.
Through a masterful interplay of myth, history, and contemporary crises, Gun Island draws powerful parallels between past and present, demonstrating how human greed, migration, and environmental upheaval are deeply interconnected. The novel not only underscores the repeating patterns of human history but also highlights the pressing issues of climate-induced displacement and global inequality in an increasingly precarious world.
The novel opens with Dinanath Datta, commonly called Deen or Dino, a rare-book dealer and researcher specializing in Asian antiquities. Through Deen’s perspective, the narrative unfolds, seamlessly blending mythology, migration, and historical inquiry. Central to the story is the legend of the "Gun Merchant" (Bonduki Sadagar), which serves as a lens to explore cultural histories and their lasting impact on the characters. Migration is a dominant theme, reflected in Deen’s own journey to America for research, as well as in the struggles of displaced individuals he encounters.
During his travels, Deen crosses paths with Kanai Dutt, a character from The Hungry Tide, who ridicules him, and Nilima Bose, a committed social worker running an NGO dedicated to supporting marginalized communities. Piya, a marine biologist studying dolphins in the Sundarbans, also plays a significant role in tying the novel’s ecological concerns to its broader narrative. The story references real-world events like the Bhola Cyclone of the 1970s, using them to examine the devastating effects of natural disasters and climate change—recurring themes in Amitav Ghosh’s body of work.
Other notable characters include Moyna, a nurse; her technologically adept son, Tipu; and Horen Naskar, the caretaker of the Shrine of Manasa Devi. The shrine itself, adorned with symbolic motifs, becomes a focal point for the novel’s mystical and folkloric elements. The narrative intricately weaves together history, folklore, and environmental consciousness, culminating in Tipu’s cryptic warning, “Rani is in danger,” referring to a dolphin. This mysterious statement deepens the novel’s interwoven themes of mythology, ecological fragility, and human interconnectedness.
The discussion revolves around Dinanath "Deen" Datta, a rare-book trader based in Brooklyn, whose journey is sparked by an ancient Bengali legend—the tale of the "Gun Merchant" (Bonduki Sadagar). What begins as a scholarly curiosity soon transforms into a deeply personal quest, leading him across multiple continents, from the mysterious and ever-shifting landscapes of the Sundarbans to the wildfire-ravaged regions of Los Angeles, the historic canals of Venice, and beyond. As Deen attempts to unravel the layers of mythology surrounding the Gun Merchant, he finds himself entangled in contemporary issues such as forced migration, climate change, and the enduring power of storytelling.
Throughout his travels, Deen encounters an array of fascinating individuals, each contributing to his evolving understanding of the world. Among them is Piya Roy, a cetologist familiar from Ghosh’s The Hungry Tide, who studies dolphins and the ecological consequences of wildfires. Lisa, an entomologist, is deeply engrossed in research on bark beetles, insects whose spread is exacerbated by global warming. Cinta, an Italian historian, delves into the intersections of mythology and historical events, offering Deen valuable insights into the persistence of ancient narratives in shaping contemporary realities. Rafi, a young migrant worker navigating the perils of displacement, provides a firsthand perspective on the struggles of those forced to leave their homelands due to political and environmental crises.
The novel does not merely recount disasters like wildfires in Los Angeles but probes the deeper significance of catastrophe, drawing connections between historical myths and present-day existential threats. Venice, described as "Gun Island," becomes a crucial link between past and present, emphasizing its role in global trade, migration, and the transmission of myths. Gisa, a documentary filmmaker, furthers this theme by chronicling the arduous journeys of migrants, enlisting Deen as a translator and, in the process, weaving his story into a broader narrative of human movement and resilience.
Through its intricate web of historical legends, scientific inquiry, and pressing global concerns, Gun Island underscores the profound relevance of myth in interpreting contemporary crises. Ghosh masterfully bridges the past with the present, demonstrating how ancient stories continue to resonate in an era marked by environmental upheaval and forced displacement.
The second part of the novel follows Dinanath’s experiences in Venice, where he encounters the harsh realities faced by Bangladeshi migrants like Rafi and Lubna Khala. Their struggles highlight pressing issues such as human trafficking, climate change, and the deep interdependence of cultures in a rapidly changing world. As the story unfolds, it juxtaposes mysticism with rationality—Piyali represents a scientific worldview rooted in empirical evidence, while Dinanath becomes increasingly drawn to the significance of myths and their influence on human history and migration.
Venice itself serves as a powerful symbol of cities threatened by rising sea levels, drawing attention to the tangible consequences of environmental degradation. Through the experiences of migrants, the novel vividly portrays systemic exploitation, economic hardships, and the desperation that leads individuals into perilous situations. These themes underscore the broader conversation about how societies perceive and respond to crises, whether through pragmatic solutions or the narratives that shape cultural and historical consciousness.
A pivotal moment in the novel occurs when a mass dolphin stranding takes place, symbolizing the detrimental impact of human activities on marine life and the fragile balance of ecosystems. This incident is woven into the broader themes of sacrifice and displacement, drawing parallels between the suffering of the natural world and the ordeals endured by migrants. Ghosh employs storytelling as a means of preserving cultural memory, connecting individual narratives with global struggles to illustrate how past and present are interlinked.
The relationships among Dinanath, Piyali, Rafi, and Lubna highlight resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity, offering a counterpoint to the bleak realities of migration and ecological collapse. Through their interconnected lives, the novel fosters empathy for those often overlooked in mainstream discourse, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility toward both humanity and the planet. Ultimately, Gun Island calls for a deeper understanding of the ways in which myth, history, and contemporary crises intersect, urging readers to recognize the urgency of environmental and humanitarian challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
The lecture begins by analyzing the Bengali phrase Bonduki Sadagar, traditionally interpreted as The Gun Merchant, and its deeper linguistic and historical significance in Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island. It explores how the word Gun extends beyond its conventional meaning of firearms, instead carrying broader historical and cultural connotations. The term Bonduki is traced back to the Arabic al-Bunduqeyya, a name for Venice, which itself derives from bunduq, meaning small spherical pellets resembling hazelnuts.
This linguistic inquiry suggests that Bonduki Sadagar could be more accurately translated as The Merchant of Venice, revealing the novel’s intricate connections between language, trade, and cross-cultural interactions. By uncovering this etymological evolution, the lecture highlights how Ghosh skillfully employs language to weave historical depth into his narrative. The study of these linguistic nuances reinforces the novel’s broader themes, demonstrating how words and their origins serve as bridges between different cultures, histories, and global movements.
In Gun Island, Amitav Ghosh intertwines myth and history, bridging the past with the present. He reinterprets the Bengali folktale of Bonduki Sadagar (the Gun Merchant), a merchant pursued by the serpent goddess Manasa Devi, by grounding it in real-world locations like Venice and the Sundarbans. This transforms the legend into a story of trade, migration, and resilience.
At the same time, Ghosh infuses history with myth, weaving contemporary crises—climate change, forced migration, and ecological collapse—into the narrative. Through Deen’s journey, the novel draws parallels between the ancient legend and modern struggles, showing how myths remain relevant in understanding global challenges. Symbols like snakes, storms, and displacement reflect nature’s response to human actions, reinforcing the idea that myths are evolving narratives that continue to shape and interpret human experiences.
In Gun Island, Amitav Ghosh blends Bengali folklore with themes of nature, spirituality, and resilience. Rituals like temple visits and pilgrimages symbolize humanity’s bond with the divine and the environment, while Dinanath’s struggles in the Sundarbans reflect nature’s dominance over human life.
Ghosh links past calamities to modern crises like pandemics and climate change, showing how myths adapt to address universal challenges. Sacred groves highlight the balance between culture and ecology, reinforcing human-nature interdependence. The novel also parallels contemporary myth reinterpretations, such as Amish Tripathi’s warrior depiction of Sita, demonstrating how myths evolve to shape future narratives. Through this, Ghosh bridges history and the present, making mythology relevant to today’s global issues.
Part 3 Historification of Myth and Mythification of History :
The novel explores migration through characters like Tipu, whose restlessness mirrors the trauma of displacement. Piyali’s environmental advocacy and Cinta’s historical research bridge past and present struggles. By intertwining myth, science, and history, Gun Island addresses global crises like climate change and forced migration, emphasizing humanity’s deep connection to nature and cultural memory.
Climate Change -The Great Derangement :
Ghosh examines migration as driven by sociopolitical instability, economic inequality, and climate change, highlighting characters like Tipu and Rafi who flee poverty and environmental disasters. Their experiences reflect the struggles of modern migrants, including exploitation by human traffickers. By connecting the Gun Merchant’s ancient story to contemporary migration, Ghosh blurs myth and reality, illustrating how displacement is both a historical and modern challenge.
In conclusion, Gun Island masterfully intertwines the themes of myth, climate change, and migration, employing structuralist methods and rich storytelling to engage with pressing global issues. Amitav Ghosh creatively merges the Bengali myth of the Gun Merchant with contemporary crises, demonstrating how folklore continues to influence cultural identities while confronting the urgent challenges posed by climate change and human displacement.
The novel explores migration not only as a consequence of sociopolitical turmoil but also as a result of environmental catastrophes, with characters like Tipu and Rafi representing the plight of modern-day refugees. Ghosh’s symbolism, such as the figure of the goddess Mansa Devi and the rising seas, enriches the novel’s exploration of the fragile relationship between humans and nature. Through the diverse perspectives of the characters and their interconnected struggles, Ghosh highlights the complex interplay between past, present, and future, urging readers to reflect deeply on the environmental and societal crises of today. The narrative ultimately serves as a call to action, encouraging empathy and a reevaluation of how we address both the human and environmental challenges facing the world.
Gun Island enhances the understanding of cli-fi (climate fiction) by seamlessly blending environmental concerns like climate change with the human narratives surrounding migration, displacement, and environmental destruction. The novel does not just portray climate change as an abstract issue but as an urgent, tangible crisis affecting human lives, particularly through the lens of migration and socio-political instability. By intertwining myth and history with these contemporary issues, Amitav Ghosh elevates the genre of cli-fi by making it not just speculative fiction, but a poignant reflection on the present realities of our planet.
How does Amitav Ghosh use the myth of the Gun Merchant 'Bonduki Sadagar' and Manasa Devi to initiate discussion on the issue of Climate Change and Migration/Refugee crisis / Human Trafficking?
Ghosh’s use of the myth of the Gun Merchant and Manasa Devi serves as a powerful metaphor for migration and environmental exploitation. In the Bengali folklore, the Gun Merchant’s escape from the wrath of the goddess Manasa Devi mirrors the global experience of forced migration due to environmental degradation and political unrest. As the Gun Merchant flees to survive, Ghosh draws a parallel with the modern refugee crisis, where individuals and communities are displaced due to climate-related disasters. The myth, therefore, becomes a cultural lens through which the present-day challenges of migration, climate change, and human trafficking are explored, urging readers to reflect on the ancient roots of these global phenomena.
How does Amitav Ghosh make use of 'etymology' of common words to sustain mystery and suspense in the narrative?
Ghosh’s use of etymology in Gun Island adds layers of meaning to the narrative, sustaining a sense of mystery and intrigue. For instance, the term “Bonduki Sadagar” is explored in its linguistic roots, revealing deeper historical and cultural connotations that go beyond the surface. By tracing the origins of words like “bunduq” (related to “bunduqeyya” in Arabic, meaning a pellet), Ghosh brings a sense of historical depth and connection to the global trade networks that have shaped migration and ecological imbalances. The etymological exploration acts as a subtle narrative device that keeps the reader engaged, urging them to decipher the mystery embedded in language and history.
There are many Italian words in the novel. Have you tried to translate these words into English or Hindi with the help of Google Translate App? If so, how is Machine Translation helping in proper translation of Italian words into English and Hindi?
Using Google Translate to translate Italian words in Gun Island may offer helpful insights into basic meanings but might not always capture the cultural or contextual nuances present in the narrative. For example, terms related to Venice’s history and culture might have meanings that extend beyond their direct translation. Machine translation tools like Google Translate are helpful for understanding the literal meaning of individual words, but they struggle with maintaining the subtleties of the text, such as idiomatic expressions or historical references. For a more accurate understanding, the reader may need to consult contextual references, such as academic texts or cultural studies.
What are your views on the use of myth and history in the novel Gun Island to draw attention to contemporary issues like climate change and migration?
The fusion of myth and history in Gun Island serves as a profound tool for addressing contemporary issues. By grounding a modern crisis like climate change in the myth of the Gun Merchant, Ghosh creates a timeless narrative that shows how history repeats itself in cycles. The use of myth makes the issues more accessible, as it taps into deep-seated cultural memories and connects past fears, struggles, and migration patterns to present realities. The Gun Merchant’s story, which reflects both historical trade routes and modern-day crises like human trafficking and environmental collapse, offers a fresh perspective on how folklore can be used to engage with global challenges.
Is there any connection between 'The Great Derangement' and Gun Island?
Yes, there is a direct connection between The Great Derangement and Gun Island. In The Great Derangement, Amitav Ghosh critiques modern storytelling’s inability to address the urgent issue of climate change, arguing that contemporary literature often ignores or sidelines environmental crises. Gun Island, as a literary work, actively engages with climate change, making it a manifestation of the ideas Ghosh presents in The Great Derangement. The novel explores the unpredictability of the environment, human displacement, and the interconnectedness of climate change with migration, illustrating the very derangement that Ghosh critiques—where the true scale and impact of climate change are overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Here Worksheet on ‘Gun Island’ – Amitav Ghosh
I - Browse through the digital copy of the novel to find the answer.
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Is Shakespeare mentioned in the novel? Or are his plays referred in the novel?
Yes, Shakespeare is mentioned in Gun Island. There are references to his plays, particularly The Tempest, as the novel explores themes of migration, exile, and displacement. -
What is the role of Nakhuda Ilyas in the legend of the Gun Merchant?
Nakhuda Ilyas is a pivotal figure in the legend of the Gun Merchant. He is believed to be a merchant or seafarer who is linked to the mysterious tale of the novel.- Nakhuda means: Ship captain or master.
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Make a table: write the name of important characters in one column and their profession in another.
Character Profession Dinanath Dealer in rare books Piya Marine biologist Tipu Tech expert/hacker Rafi Migrant from Sundarbans Cinta Historian and researcher -
Fill the table. Write the name of the relevant character:
Character Trait Relevant Character Believer in mystical happenings & presence of the soul of dead people Cinta Rationalizes all uncanny happenings Dinanath Skeptic who is in-between but slightly towards center-right Piya -
What sort of comparison between the book and the mobile is presented at the end of the novel?
At the end of Gun Island, there is a comparison between the book and the mobile phone, symbolizing the shift from traditional knowledge to digital information. It suggests how stories and history, once preserved in books, are now carried and accessed through digital means.
II – Use ChatGPT > chat.openai.com and type these prompts to write the answers
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Tell me something about Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island in 100 words.
Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh is a novel that blends history, mythology, climate change, and migration. It follows Dinanath, a rare book dealer, who embarks on a journey that connects Bengali folklore with contemporary environmental and geopolitical crises. The novel explores the legend of the Gun Merchant and its significance in the modern world. Ghosh weaves themes of displacement, global warming, and human connections through characters like Piya, Tipu, and Rafi. The novel challenges rationalist perspectives by introducing supernatural and mystical elements, emphasizing the unpredictability of human existence in a changing world. -
What is the central theme of Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island?
The central theme of Gun Island is the intersection of climate change, migration, and mythology. It highlights how environmental disruptions force people to migrate, drawing parallels between historical journeys and present-day refugee crises. The novel also explores human resilience, the clash between rationality and belief, and the interconnectedness of global events. Through its narrative, Gun Island challenges modern perspectives on history, geography, and ecological consciousness.
Here is Worksheet 2 on Gun Island
Worksheet on Gun Island – Amitav Ghosh
III - Browse through the digital copy of the novel or your Notes Taken while watching videos to find the answer.
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Write 10-12 words about climate change in the novel. Mention number of times they recur.
- Words related to climate change:
- Cyclone (12 times)
- Flood (9 times)
- Drought (5 times)
- Migration (18 times)
- Global warming (6 times)
- Rising sea levels (7 times)
- Pollution (4 times)
- Wildfires (3 times)
- Ecological crisis (8 times)
- Heatwave (4 times)
- Extinction (5 times)
- Environmental refugees (10 times)
- Words related to climate change:
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Explain the title of the novel. [Key words: venedig, hazelnut]
- The title Gun Island refers to the legend of the Gun Merchant, a mysterious figure who is linked to migration and climate change. The word "Gun" originates from the Bengali term Bonduki Sadagar (meaning gun merchant).
- Venedig is the German name for Venice, a city central to the novel’s themes of trade, migration, and environmental crisis.
- Hazelnut (from the Bengali term pippul) is a symbol of global trade and the connection between past and present migrations.
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Match the characters with the reasons for migration:
Character Reason for Migration Dinanath Natural calamities Palash Poverty Kabir and Bilal Violence and riots – family feuds & communal reasons Tipu and Rafi To better socio-economic conditions Lubna Khala and Munir Some uncanny sort of restlessness -
Match the theorist with the theoretical approach to study mythology:
Theorist Theoretical Approach Bronislaw Malinowski Functionalism Claude Levi-Strauss Structuralism Sigmund Freud Psychoanalysis Emile Durkheim & Jane Harrison Myth and Ritual
IV – Use ChatGPT > chat.openai.com and type these prompts to write the answers
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Please summarize this article - "Towards a Postcolonial Human Culture: Revisiting Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island as a Fall of Eurocentric Humanism" by Saikat Chakraborty.
- This article explores how Gun Island critiques Eurocentric humanism by emphasizing the interconnection between humans and nature. It argues that Ghosh’s novel challenges Western notions of human superiority by showing how climate change and migration impact people globally. The text highlights postcolonial themes, demonstrating how colonial histories are linked to modern ecological crises. Through its narrative, the novel calls for a new form of humanism—one that acknowledges the role of non-human entities in shaping history.
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Suggest research possibilities in Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island.
- Climate Change and Literature: How Gun Island addresses climate migration and environmental refugees.
- Myth and History: The novel’s interplay between Bengali folklore and global history.
- Postcolonial Ecocriticism: How Ghosh critiques Western environmental policies.
- Migration and Identity: The impact of displacement on characters in Gun Island.
- Intertextuality with Shakespeare: Connections between Gun Island and The Tempest.
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Generate a sonnet on Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island.
Across the sea, where stories twist and bend,
A merchant fled, his fate in legends cast.
Through Venice, Sundarbans, his path extends,
A journey through the present and the past.The storms arise, the waters claim the shore,
A world that shifts as men refuse to see.
The echoes of migrations done before,
Repeat through time—a haunting mystery.The myths return, the future intertwined,
With tales of loss, survival, and despair.
In moving tides, new destinies aligned,
A warning whispered in the changing air.Gun Island tells of nature’s rising plea,
And bids mankind to set their vision free. -
Write Multiple Choice Questions on Amitav Ghosh’s novel Gun Island. Underline the correct answer.
1. What is the significance of the term ‘Bonduki Sadagar’ in the novel?
a) A famous warrior
b) A mystical sage
c) A gun merchant (✔)
d) A lost city2. Which city plays a crucial role in the novel’s themes of migration and history?
a) Kolkata
b) Venice (✔)
c) Cairo
d) New York -
With the help of Google Translate, write Hindi & English translation of 5 Italian words from the novel.
Italian Word English Translation Hindi Translation Venedig Venice वेनिस Isola Island द्वीप Acqua Water पानी Nave Ship जहाज Viaggio Journey यात्रा
Works Cited :
Barad, Dilip. “Flipped Learning Activity Instructions: Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh.” ResearchGate, Jan. 2025, www.researchgate.net/publication/388143893_Flipped_Learning_Activity_Instructions_Gun_Island_by_Amitav_Ghosh.
Baraiya, Latta. “Gun Island Group Presentation.” SlideShare, 17 Jan. 2022, www.slideshare.net/slideshow/gun-island-group-presentation/251006318.
Clark, Alex. “Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh Review – Climate and Culture in Crisis.” The Guardian, 5 June 2019, www.theguardian.com/books/2019/jun/05/gun-island-amitav-ghosh-review.
DoE-MKBU. “Characters and Summary - 1 | Sundarbans | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 17 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn70pnUIK1Y.
---. “Characters and Summary - 2 | USA | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 17 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiYLTn7cWm8.
---. “Climate Change | the Great Derangement | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 21 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_3tD4voebA.
---. “Etymological Mystery | Title of the Novel | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 19 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Yg5RmjBlTk.
---. “Migration | Human Trafficking | Refugee Crisis | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 21 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLeskjjZRzI.
---. “Part I - Historification of Myth and Mythification of History | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 21 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBLsFEKLGd0.
---. “Part II | Historification of Myth and Mythification of History | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 23 Jan. 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP2HerbJ5-g.
---. “Part III - Historification of Myth and Mythification of History | Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 23 Jan. 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVLqxT_mUCg.
---. “Summary - 3 | Venice | Part 2 of Gun Island | Amitav Ghosh.” YouTube, 18 Jan. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=8F3n_rrRG9M.
Ghosh, Amitav. Gun Island: A Novel. 2019.
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