Mulk Raj Anand's Coolie receives praise for its raw depiction of the exploitation of Indian laborers, highlighting systemic social injustices. Critics commend Anand's narrative for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of the protagonist's struggles. However, some note that the novel's bleak outlook and intense narrative may be overwhelming for readers.

A reader who would enjoy Coolie by Mulk Raj Anand likely appreciates social realism and narratives focused on the plight of the underprivileged. Similar readers might enjoy John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath or Upton Sinclair's The Jungle for their themes of economic hardship and social injustice.

Coolie by Mulk Raj Anand follows the life of Munoo, a 14-year-old orphan from northern India who is forced to leave his village to work in various harsh and degrading conditions across the country, including as a servant, factory worker, and rickshaw puller. The novel portrays Munoo's relentless struggle for dignity and survival amidst extreme poverty, exploitation, and systemic injustice. Contains depictions of physical abuse and exploitative labor conditions.

Melancholic / Dark / Gritty / Challenging / Emotional

- Coolie, published in 1936, is considered one of Mulk Raj Anand's most notable works and is praised for its portrayal of the hardships faced by the lower caste and class in pre-independent India.
- The book is part of Anand's trilogy that delves into the social issues in India, the others being Untouchable and Two Leaves and a Bud.
- Mulk Raj Anand was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 1948, affirming his significant contribution to literature, including works like Coolie.

**Munoo**  
A representation of India's impoverished working class, Munoo is a coolie whose journey is marked by brief moments of happiness amid a life largely controlled by circumstances beyond his control. 

**Ratan**  
A strong and hopeful coolie from the Bombay cotton mill who befriends Munoo, embodying the resilience and potential of India's underclass to drive social and economic change.

**Nathoo Ram**  
An accountant in Sham Nagar who offers Munoo a place to stay and work, demonstrating kindness amidst his own vulnerabilities.

**Prabha Dyal and His Wife**  
The gentle owners of a chutney factory in Daulatpur who care for Munoo and offer him moments of familial warmth, while battling their own adversities.

**May Mainwaring**  
A woman who takes Munoo in after an accident, providing him shelter and care in a pivotal moment of need.

**Bibiji**  
A character who sees Munoo as less than human, reflecting the societal tendencies to devalue coolies.

**Ganpat**  
A schemer in the factory who focuses on personal gain, showing disregard for the well-being of the workers.

**Jimmie Thomas**  
The harsh foreman in the Bombay cotton mill, known for his demeaning treatment of coolies under dangerous working conditions.

Mulk Raj Anand

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Coolie and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Coolie Summary and Study Guide

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Character Analysis

Coolie Character Analysis

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Coolie Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Coolie Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4, Pages 145-191

Coolie Chapter 4, Pages 145-191 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4, Pages 191-249

Coolie Chapter 4, Pages 191-249 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5 Coolie Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

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Themes

Coolie Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Coolie Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Coolie Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Coolie Essay Topics

Coolie

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Coolie?

Reading Age

Book Details