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Immerse Yourself in the Alluring World of "Reef" by Romesh Gunesekera: Study Guide and Summary

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Summary & Study Guide Reef by Romesh Gunesekera

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	114 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	37 pages
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Romesh Gunesekera's "Reef" is a poignant and evocative novel that explores the complexities of Sri Lankan society during a time of political upheaval and civil unrest. Published in 1994, the novel won the prestigious Gratiaen Prize and has since become a classic of Sri Lankan literature.

This study guide and summary will provide you with an in-depth understanding of "Reef," helping you to appreciate its intricate plot, memorable characters, and profound themes.

Plot Summary

"Reef" is set in Sri Lanka during the 1980s, a period of intense ethnic conflict between the majority Sinhalese and the minority Tamils. The novel follows the lives of two families: the Salgado family, wealthy Sinhalese landowners, and the Ranasinghe family, poor Tamil laborers.

The novel begins with the discovery of a body washed up on the beach of a small coastal town. The body is identified as that of an elderly Tamil man, and the local police quickly dismiss it as a suicide. However, suspicion soon falls on the Salgados, who have a history of exploiting the Ranasinghes and other Tamil workers.

As the investigation deepens, dark secrets and long-held resentments come to the surface. The novel explores the ways in which the conflict has divided the community and the devastating impact it has on individuals and families.

Character Analysis

The Salgado Family

* Hector Salgado: The wealthy and ruthless patriarch of the Salgado family. He is a cruel and exploitative landlord who is determined to maintain his power and wealth at any cost. * Donnie Salgado: Hector's ambitious and ruthless son. He is willing to do whatever it takes to succeed in life, even if it means betraying his own family. * Anna Salgado: Hector's long-suffering wife. She is a kind and compassionate woman who is trapped in an unhappy marriage.

The Ranasinghe Family

* Selva Ranasinghe: A poor Tamil laborer who is struggling to support his family. He is a proud and dignified man, but he is forced to endure humiliation and exploitation at the hands of the Salgados. * Leela Ranasinghe: Selva's wife. She is a strong and resilient woman who is determined to protect her family. * Ganesha Ranasinghe: Selva and Leela's young son. He is a bright and inquisitive boy who is caught in the middle of the conflict.

Themes

* Ethnic Conflict: "Reef" explores the devastating impact of ethnic conflict on individuals and communities. The novel shows how prejudice and discrimination can lead to violence and hatred. * Class Inequality: The novel also explores the issue of class inequality. The Salgados represent the wealthy and privileged elite, while the Ranasinghes represent the poor and marginalized. The novel shows how the gap between the rich and the poor can lead to exploitation and social injustice. * The Search for Identity: "Reef" also explores the search for identity in a changing world. The characters in the novel are struggling to find their place in a society that is torn apart by conflict and division.

Literary Devices

Gunesekera uses a variety of literary devices in "Reef" to create a rich and evocative text. These devices include:

* Metaphor: The novel is full of metaphors that explore the themes of the novel. For example, the reef itself is a metaphor for the dangers and challenges that the characters face. * Symbolism: Gunesekera also uses symbolism to convey meaning. For example, the body of the murdered Tamil man is a symbol of the victims of the ethnic conflict. * Imagery: The novel is also rich in imagery. Gunesekera uses vivid and evocative language to create a powerful sense of place and atmosphere.

"Reef" is a powerful and moving novel that offers a深刻考察of the human cost of ethnic conflict and social injustice. Through its rich characters, evocative setting, and profound themes, the novel provides a timeless exploration of the challenges and complexities of human existence.

This study guide and summary has provided you with an in-depth understanding of "Reef." We encourage you to read the novel and experience the power of Gunesekera's writing firsthand.

Summary & Study Guide Reef by Romesh Gunesekera

5 out of 5