DOUBLE COLONIZATION IN MOTH SMOKE: THE ELITE’S EXPLOITATION OF MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

Abstract

This research explores the idea of double colonization in Mohsin Hamid’s novel Moth Smoke. It expands and redefines the term to show how people in a postcolonial country are first ruled by colonizers, and later by their own powerful elites. These local elites take control and continue the same systems of oppression after independence. This study adopts a qualitative literary approach grounded in postcolonial theory and ecocriticism. It also introduces the term “brown masters” to describe native elites who act like the former colonizers. The analysis looks at how Hamid shows class differences, social rejection, and damage to the environment. These problems are presented as linked results of elite control. The study focuses on themes, character actions, and symbols in the novel. It argues that Moth Smoke gives a strong critique of power in postcolonial societies. These power systems continue to cause both inequality and environmental harm. This study brings together ideas from both postcolonial theory and environmental studies. It adds a new view of double colonization in the South Asian context.