Bachelor of Arts (book) - Definition

The Bachelor of Arts (1937) is a novel written by R.K.Narayan. It is the second book of a trilogy that began with Swami and Friends and ended with The English Teacher. It is again set in Malgudi, the fictional town Narayan invented for his novels.

First, college life of main character Chandran in late colonial times is described. After graduation, he falls in love, but Indian customs collide with his desire to marry; frustrated and desperate, he embarks on a journey as Sanyasi. Later he returns home, takes up a job as newsagent and is persuaded to marry.

The book covers the uneasy relations between India and then colonial power Britain, familiy and business life in middle class India together with the growing up of the main character.