Great Books Forum: The Namesake

Part of the Great Books Discussion Forum Series

Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: SUNY Westchester Valhalla, Harold L. Drimmer Library Atrium

Join the Great Books Discussion Forum and Prof. Rachel Wineberg as we close out our discussions with our Final book The Namesake, written by Jhumpa Lahiri. What’s in a name? For the hero of Jhumpa Lahiri’s novel, it is his identity. Named after a Russian author, expected to live up to the aspirations of his Bengali parents, wanting to be “normal” like his American friends, Gogol searches for his true self. Lahiri is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author whose work is renowned for exploring the various culture clashes which arise out of the Indian diaspora. This debut novel is a powerful literary treatment of the lives of immigrants and their families.

A limited number of free books will be available for students to take home after the event.

About the Great Book Discussion Forum Series

Join us at the Great Books Discussion Forum as we head Out of India to explore three contemporary classics of Indian and Indian American Literature! India’s long history and rich culture have led to a tradition of thought-provoking literature that continues today. Adding to the mix have been the writings of many authors of Indian descent in other countries. Come be a part of some exciting conversations concerning culture, class, faith, immigration, globalization, and more. Great Books Discussion Forum is open to all, and attendance is free. All Great Books Discussion Forums are held during common hours on select Wednesdays in the Harold L. Drimmer Library atrium.

For more information, contact brian.centrone@sunywcc.edu and casey.ellis@sunywcc.edu