Constructing Otherness: Exploring Identity at the Crossroads of Borders in John Lanchester’s The Wall and Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West

This thesis delves into the nuanced exploration of the intersection between borders and identity, with a focused emphasis on the construct of Otherness in contemporary fiction. Through a comparative analysis of John Lanchester’s The Wall and Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West, this study seeks to unravel the intricate ways in which physical and metaphorical borders shape the construction of identity and influence the portrayal of Otherness in the characters’ narratives. The theoretical framework integrates concepts from literary studies, examining how these novels contribute to the ongoing scholarly conversation surrounding borders, identity formation, and the complex dynamics of Othering. By narrowing the focus to these specific aspects, this research aims to address a notable research gap and provide a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary human experience within the literary context. The findings promise to contribute valuable insights into the socio-political discourse surrounding borders, identity, and Otherness in contemporary literature.