Women in African and Indian Society

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that the women in both societies play productive roles, working in the fields, attending to all domestic duties, and educating the children. The author points out that, in both novels, the softer, more accepting nature of the female characters should not be mistaken for weakness. The paper relates that African and Indian cultures may place undue emphasis on the male role in society; but, as Achebe and Markandaya demonstrate, their cultures are not devoid of respect and care for their women.

From the Paper:

"The interpretation that women in "Things Fall Apart" are at the mercy of a male dominated, sexist society is largely due to the character of Okonkwo, its central protagonist. Right through the text, Okonkwo is heard to constantly compare all signs of weakness to femininity, a worldview that also leads him into frequently asserting his masculinity with his multiple wives, family and community. Okonkwo's obsession with masculinity should not, however, be taken to represent the views of African culture, as a whole."

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