The representation of polygyny in selected African works : a perpetuation of patriarchal patrilineal identities

Abstract

This thesis interrogates the institution of polygamy, particularly polygyny, as cultural artefacts that inform patrilineal and patriarchal beliefs; as well as nostalgic practices that impact negatively on African women's identities. The thesis advocates for the positive portrayal of women characters in African literature, instead of the prevalent 'otherisation' seen in most existing African texts. An extensive textual analysis shows that in some works of Chinua Achebe, Onuora Nzekwu and others which do not only castigate polygamy, these texts also fail to recommend positive representations of women concerned. The assertion made is that scholars and writers need to be conscientised on the role ofliterature as a tool of fossilizing the negative while playing its role of educating, informing and entertaining the public, with respect to the portrayal of African women. This thesis will further expolore the experiences of various stakeholders within the institution of this phenomenon, and enhance their silenced realities. This includes children and in-laws, as indirect victims of this set-up. Parents are the most influential persons in the lives of their children, lack of parental affection due to conflicts that dominate polygamous relationships negatively impact the characters of children yet, regardless of the example set by their parents, children are still expected to be successful themselves, in terms of character, and general life achievement. In-laws are usually perpetrators of victimization, especially to the wives, whether senior or junior. They use culture to propagate expectations in their favour and to influence decisions. Senior wives and junior wives will be extensively dealt with, in the light of behavioural and emotional impacts of polygamy and the surrounding social constructs which include religion, culture, economy, education, health as well as legal aspects of this notion.