This book offers a new interpretation of the life and legacy of the Indian reformer and intellectual, Ishvarchandra Vidyasagar. Drawing upon autobiography, biography, secondary criticism and a range of Vidyasagar's original writings in Bengali, it analyses the role of history, memory and controversy in shaping the after-life of an enigmatic Indian.
'In this innovative work, Hatcher attempts not so much a biography of Vidyasagar as an insightful reading of extant biographies.' - Amiya P. Sen, Head, Department of History and Culture, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
'Hatcher's stunning exploration makes this important monograph both biographical and historiographical.' - A. R. Venkatachalapathy, Madras Institute of Development Studies, Chennai