REALISM IN T. S ELIOT'S MURDER IN THE CATHEDRAL AND NGUGI WA THIONGO'S THE TRIAL OF DEDAN KIMATHI

This work investigate the concept of realism in T. S Eliot's Murder in the Cathedral and Ngugi Wa Thiongo's and Micere Githae Mugo's The Trial of Dedan Kimathi. It explores how both texts, rooted in different cultural and historical contexts, employ realism to convey profound themes of martydom, resustance, and sociopolitical struggle. In Murder in the Cathedral, Eliot uses historical realism to dramatize the assassination of Thomas Bucket, highlighting tge moral conflict between the church and State while delving into Becket's internal psychological struggles. The chorus srrves as a social mirror, reflecting the collective fears and anxieties of 12th century society. In contrast, The Trial of Dedan Kimathi portrays the realities of colonial oppression and the Kenyan resistance against British rule. Ngugi and Mugo dipict the economic exploitation and social injustices of colonial Kenya, blending political and pyschological realism to emphasize Dedan's resilience and leadership. The comparative analysis reveals that while Eliot focuses on spiritual and existential dimension within a historical framework, Ngugi and Mugo emphasize the collective struggle for freedom, underpined by socio-economic and political dynamics. Both texts use realism as a lens to engage audiences with themes of Justice, Morality, and resistance, offering timeless insights into human resilience and the complexities of power. This study underscores the adaptability of realism across cultures and contexts, illustrating its enduring relevance in addressing universal human experiences.