"Nervous Conditions"

Paper Summary:

The writer of this paper focuses on the significance of the first paragraph in Dangarembga's novel. The writer contends and explains why the opening paragraph sets the tone for what is to come, while also giving the reader a somewhat solid footing for understanding the remainder of the novel. This paper analyzes the main character and narrator of the novel, Tambu, in this coming of age novel, geared towards women. This paper examines life in Africa as seen through the eyes of Tambu, as well as her struggle to break free from colonial rule and the bonds that tie her to poverty and ignorance.

From the Paper:

"This is a coming of age novel for women, and some of that foundation is laid in the first paragraph of the book, where the narrator, Tambu, makes it quite clear that she did not like her brother, and that his death made a difference in her life. The first paragraph does set the pace of the story, and let the reader know that something uncommon will happen to the narrator/heroine of the novel, but it does not prepare the reader for the many experiences the narrator has, or how they affect her life. In addition, the novel shows how imperialistic rule by another country affects all the residents, and creates many kinds of havoc in their lives, from having to move their traditional bathing place in the river when a new District Council House is built, to the eating disorders and illnesses that affect some of the characters, which seem to be one of the only ways they can rebel against colonialist rule."

More papers on "Nervous Conditions":

• Book Review # 101415 : "Tstisi Dangarembga's "Nervous Conditions"
• Book Review # 131447 : "Nervous Conditions" - A Book Review"
• Analytical Essay # 6573 : "African Culture and Identity in "Nervous Conditions"
• Analytical Essay # 23496 : "Tsitsi Dangarembga's "Nervous Conditions"

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