presentation

Shafana and Aunt Sarrinah by Alana Valentine, is a remarkable piece of literature. In Alana Valentine’s play, the cultural meaning of the hijab has triggered warfare between the aunt and niece.Wearing a hijab provides  a touchstone of religious identity, but it is also darkened and foreshadowed with vast historical and present-time complications.Literature provides the ability in which we develop identity through various forms such as,setting(cultural identity) or narrative storytelling. Identity is a person’s conception and expression of individuality or group affiliation, self-concept and self-representation. Identity is closely connected to both culture and language.

The play is set post 9/11, it explores various themes of faith, religion and identity. It does this by having dual interpretations of their religion and the outside world.The aunt and niece are both dedicated Muslim women. Shafana wants to wear the hijab where as Sarrinah rebels against her will, as to Sarrinah she perceived the hijab a world where she has escaped, as opposed to Shafana who perceives it as an opportunity of renewed faith.

Texts impact shaping a sense of identity greatly as without it we would not be able to recognize the underlying principles of how we perceive culture, language and identity. Shafana's opening monologue allows the audience to gain an insight into partial aspects of the text. The monologue informs us of Shafana's view on generational change and society. Shafana implies “Where a whole generation lose touch” this is comparing the difference beliefs and conflict about wearing the hijab. “There are new possibilities to be revealed”. This symbolizes that there are always new opportunities which can in turn transform and individual and they're identity.

Culture and language deal a crucial role in shaping an individual's identify.This is made evident as it is shown through the transitional periods of the play. Sarrinah states “Of all the steps the first one is the one that challenges us the most. This foreshadowing as further into the text Sarrinah finds it hard to apprehend what had just been said by Shafana and how she has had decided to wear the headscarf. Sarrinah encouraged her by stating to “Ease your listeners in gradually”, the foreshadowing moment lead them to discuss Shafana faith later on at the dinner table.

Texts have an impact on shaping a sense of identity for the individual as it allows us to be in the shoes of the character and we can view from their perspective and make judgments accordingly to our and the characters sense of identity.This is evident with Shafana when she is reading through the Quran, while developing her understanding of her culture she is gaining a greater understanding of the world in which surrounds her.

Texts play a key role in establishing identity in individuals. Even though Shafana and Sarrinah have different viewpoints towards they're faith and culture they still show character and mutual respect towards one another.
The opening dialogue between Sarrinah and Shafana establishes they have a close relationship.”I know you're teasing me” this then reveals that they joking talk toward each other, however Sarrinah’s lack of attention towards Shafanas presentation indicates their differences.

Identity is also explores throughout the text. The plays opening suggests the transition in Sarrinah's culture and identity. Sarrinah doesn't believe she is a doctor of engineering until she has documentations stating that she is. “Until it does I am Sarrinah Obaidullah. Afghani migrant and nobody, the ID card is a physical representation of the transitional change in her culture and identity.

In conclusion texts impact greatly in shaping a sense of identity greatly as without it we would not be able to recognise the underlying principles of how we perceive culture, language and identity.