What are the main themes developed in Maru?

One of the most present themes in Maru
is how unjust social norms and practices can and must be challenged by
individuals in order to create lasting change. The process of social isolation and
untouchability is something that is challenged by both Margaret and the men who love
her.  This idea is present in the end, when Maru takes Margaret as his bride, leaving
his social setting and fighting through a new path that is unworn.  In the end, this
becomes one of the most powerful themes in the novel.  If individuals wish to change the
world into what it should be as opposed to what it is, this process has to begin with
individuals who are willing to make sacrifices for such a cause.  These sacrifices are
painful and filled with challenge as both Margaret and Maru both prove, but they are
needed in order for the negative practices of the past to stop and to cease.  A new
social order is always difficult to envision, unless a level of commitment to its goals
are present in the actions of its individuals and this is something seen in the
text.