An In-depth Analysis of Presuppositions used in the Short Story “Khol Do” by Saadat Hasan Manto

Abstract

This research paper offers an extensive investigation of the presuppositions utilized in Saadat Hasan Manto’s prestigious brief tale, "Khol Do." Using a qualitative research design, this study investigates the six particular sorts of presupposition, revealing insight into the nuanced layers of meaning inserted inside Manto’s story. By converging in on a solitary brief tale, we gain a concentrated viewpoint, empowering a more profound comprehension of Manto’s purposeful utilization of assumptions to address cultural standards and customs. The examination of preconceived ideas uncovers Manto’s guileful disguise of significance, inviting perusers to participate in a provocative interpretation of the hidden meanings provided by him throughout this text. Through this review, we reveal Manto’s inclination to challenge generalizations and refine underestimated characters, especially Sakina and Sirajuddin. This proposes Manto’s expectation to urge readers to rise above social boundaries and recognize the shared humanity in all humankind, no matter what their societal position or individual histories. This research employs the use of six types of presuppositions presented by George Yule in his theory of presupposition (1996) to identify the hidden meanings and presumption throughout this short story.