"Krishna Kanta's Will" by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, published in 1878, is a significant novel in Bengali literature that reflects the social and moral issues of 19th-century India. The novel is a critical exploration of societal norms, family dynamics, and individual ethics.Brief Overview: Author: Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Title: Krishna Kanta’s Will Publication Year: 1878Plot Summary: Premise: The story revolves around the will of Krishna Kanta, a wealthy landowner. His will becomes the focal point of the narrative, revealing the deep-seated conflicts and ethical dilemmas within his family.Key Themes:Social Reform: The novel addresses the need for social reform in colonial India, critiquing outdated practices and advocating for progressive change. Family Conflict: The will causes a rift among family members, bringing to light issues of inheritance, family loyalty, and personal integrity. Moral Dilemmas: Characters grapple with moral choices and ethical issues that challenge traditional values and highlight the tensions between modern and traditional perspectives. Characters:Krishna Kanta: The deceased patriarch whose will sets the plot in motion. His legacy and the conditions outlined in his will create significant turmoil among his heirs. The Heirs: The various family members who are affected by the will and who exhibit different responses to the challenges it presents. Resolution:The novel explores how the family members resolve the conflicts arising from the will. It reflects on the broader implications of their actions and decisions, ultimately offering a critique of societal norms and highlighting the need for ethical introspection and reform. Significance: Literary Impact: "Krishna Kanta’s Will" is recognized for its insightful portrayal of social issues and its role in Bengali literature. It reflects Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s concern with social reform and his ability to weave complex moral questions into his narrative. Social Commentary: The novel provides a critical view of the traditional practices and social structures of the time, advocating for a more progressive and just society. "Krishna Kanta's Will" remains an important work for understanding the social and cultural dynamics of 19th-century India and continues to be studied for its contributions to literature and social thought.

"Krishna Kanta's Will" by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, published in 1878, is a notable work in Bengali literature. The novel addresses themes of social reform, moral dilemmas, and the conflicts between traditional values and modernity in 19th-century India.Here is the table of contents for the 1878 edition of "Krishna Kanta's Will":Table of Contents: IntroductionOverview of the novel and its themes. Brief introduction to the author and historical context. Chapter 1: The WillThe introduction of Krishna Kanta’s will and its impact on the characters. Chapter 2: The Family DynamicsExploration of the family relationships and the conflict arising from the will. Chapter 3: The Legal BattleThe legal proceedings and the struggle for the inheritance detailed in the will. Chapter 4: Moral and Social IssuesExamination of the moral and social issues that emerge as a result of the will. Chapter 5: Personal StrugglesFocus on the personal struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by the main characters. Chapter 6: The ResolutionThe resolution of the central conflicts and the outcomes of the legal and moral battles. EpilogueReflections on the broader implications of the story’s resolution. Summary of the themes and lessons conveyed through the narrative.