The Sand Child Analysis

Self-discovery is an essential component to both the establishment and consistent development of an individual’s identity. Frequent introspection ultimately promotes individuality, and when this self-analysis is obstructed, it can easily result in mental instability as well as extensive internal confliction. Within Tahar Ben Jelloun’s, The Sand Child, Mohammed Ahmed is unable to properly develop his identity as a result of the intense surrounding cultural and societal values - of which predominantly focus on reinforcing male superiority while also influencing gender discrimination - alongside the considerably constraining presence of Ahmed’s father during his childhood. Throughout The Sand Child, Tahar Ben Jelloun rigorously describes the ways

As the novel begins, the reader is indicated that the Hajji Ahmed has been desperately attempting to give birth to a male progeny, of which would be able to inherit the various family valuables that are otherwise unavailable to the female children of the household. Yet, as their inability to successfully bear a son continues, Hajji Ahmed develops an increasingly negative opinion on the female members of his family, as well as his himself, as expressed within the line, “He [Hajji Ahmed] said that his face was inhabited by shame, that his body was possessed by an accursed seed…” (Jelloun 9). As Hajji Ahmed’s desperation to have a son increases - of which is a result of the immense pressure he recieves from his brothers in relation to the Inheritance Law itself - he forces his wife to undergo a variety of vile ceremonies that were supposed to increase their chances of giving birth to a boy. More specifically, it is described that, “Her [Hajji Ahmed’s wife] life was hell, and her husband, always discontent, his pride wounded, his honor lost, treated her roughly and held her responsible for the misfortune that had befallen them” (Jelloun 10). However, despite the combination of grotesque birthing rituals and frequent mistreatment, Hajji’s wife remains loyal to him, of which is referenced within the quote, “The wife was ready to make any sacrifice and was filled with hopes each time she became pregnant. But at each birth her joy turned to despair. She, too, began to lose interest in her daughters” (Jelloun 10-11). Not only does this quote showcase the extent of Hajji Ahmed’s wife’s loyalty, but it