This novel, whether purposely or not, isn't only viable to the Indian civilization in the early 20th century. It can be read in many contexts of a timeline. The common themes that make it so are the oppressed vs. the oppressor, the relationship between a husband and wife, the simple similarities in writing style and rhetoric to others, etc... However, one cannot ignore the fact that Tagore's novel must be read in its historical, cultural context. There is no doubt that Tagore's novel The Home and the World, which is imbued with extremely sober nationalism, may touch the heart of any nation that has been oppressed. The anger of Sandip, the power of his words that impress Bimala so deeply, and the outer turmoil in the streets can ring a similar bell to any person in an oppressed society. One in a similar situation today could possibly read this novel and feel a sense of inspiration, a hope of change. That feeling is brought about by the characters of this novel. Sandip, as mentioned above, possesses the anger, power, and leadership abilities; Bimala possesses the women's half of a revolution by embodying a female of courage and intellect; and, finally, Nikhil possesses the aspect of contemplation, peace, and constancy. As mentioned above, one in any time period could read this novel and find similarities in one's own struggles; but, it is most important to realize the historical influences in this novel. This was written during a time where Indian nationalism was passionate (like Sandip) or one that constructs the "home" as the symbolic site of nationalist politics and nonviolent activism (like Bimala).
             This novel can be related to people by its all too common love triangle: namely the fine representation of the relationship between a husband, a wife, and the "third one." The doubts, hopes, intentions, sufferings, and actions of Bimala resemble those of any woman; and because of ...