Antonio Gramsci and the Analysis of Class Consciousness-Some Methodological Considerations

In this paper the author attempts to reconstruct and present some of the major writings of Antonio Gramsci as related to the analysis of class consciousness. The focus is on the methodological issues raised by such an analysis. The thematic organisationo of Gramscis writings and their interpretation are largely based on the author's research experience in studying the dynamics and forms of class consciousness within a peasant movement in Maharashtra. An attempt is made to abstract certain general methodological considerations that might be relevant to the understanding of class consciousness in an Indian context.