English Paper 2

ENGLISH PAPER 2:
Comparative Essay
Done by: Abdifatah, Briyana and Warda
QUESTION
Literary works often depict a struggle between genders.
Compare how two of the works you’ve read depict a struggle
between genders.
Introduction
Literary works often help depict the struggles the world faces no matter the time period
they're based in. Texts such as "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and "Things
Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe, were both written by Nigerian authors. These novels bring out
the intricacies of gender inequality in the African culture during pre and post-colonialism
times. In spite of the different time periods between the texts, both authors use characters,
symbolism, and imagery to bring out gender inequality a societal issue that has been brought
out in African patriarchal societies throughout time, where the authors continue to impart
knowledge to the readers.
PEACE ACT
Both authors employ characterization as a means of effectively conveying the theme of gender inequality in their
respective literary works. In Purple Hibiscus, the novel effectively conveys this theme through its portrayal of the
patriarchal society in which Kambili and her family live. The character of Eugene serves as a representation of the
deeply ingrained gender roles and expectations that exist in this society. Eugene's belief in the superiority of men
over women is reflected in his treatment of his wife and children. He uses physical and emotional abuse to assert his
dominance and control over his family, and he expects them to be obedient and submissive to his will. On the other
hand, his sister Aunty Ifeoma experiences gender inequality through the challenges she faces in her academic career.
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Aunty Ifeoma is often underestimated and overlooked. She struggles to
secure a permanent position at the university, despite her impressive qualifications and experience, she doesn't get
paid as much as the men and is forced to take on multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet. Another way in which
Aunty Ifeoma experiences gender inequality is through the challenges she faces as a single mother. Aunty Ifeoma's
decision to raise her children on her own is seen as a threat to traditional gender roles, and she is viewed with
suspicion of killing her husband and disdain by some members of her community. Her struggles highlight the
limitations placed on women in Nigerian society and the ways in which patriarchal structures can hinder women's
professional aspirations.
In Things Fall Apart, Achebe uses the character of Okonkwo to illustrate the strict gender roles that exist in
traditional Igbo society. Okonkwo is a highly respected warrior who is obsessed with the idea of masculinity
and strength. He believes that anything associated with femininity is weak and inferior, including his own son,
Nwoye, who he sees as lazy and effeminate. Okonkwo's strict adherence to traditional gender roles has
serious consequences for both himself and those around him. For example, Okonkwo's fear of appearing weak
or feminine leads him to commit acts of violence against those he sees as weaker than himself. He beats his
wives and children, and he participates in the killing of Ikemefuna, a young boy who he has become close to,
because he fears being seen as weak if he does not participate. This violence is not only harmful to those
around Okonkwo, but it is also an expression of the limitations placed on men in traditional Igbo society. Men
are expected to be strong and aggressive, and any deviation from this expectation is seen as a weakness.
Furthermore, Okonkwo's strict adherence to traditional gender roles creates tension within his own family. His
son, Nwoye, is not interested in the masculine pursuits that Okonkwo values, such as hunting and wrestling.
Instead, Nwoye is drawn to stories and the Christian missionaries who come to the village. Okonkwo sees this
as a betrayal of his values and becomes increasingly harsh with his son. This dynamic illustrates how strict
gender roles can be harmful, not only to women but also to men who do not fit into traditional gender norms.
While both Purple Hibiscus and Things Fall Apart explore the theme of gender inequality, they do so
in different ways. In Purple Hibiscus, Adichie focuses on the experiences of women and the ways in
which they are oppressed by patriarchal structures in Nigerian society. On the other hand, Things Fall
Apart focuses on the strict gender roles that exist in traditional Igbo society and the ways in which
these roles can be oppressive to both men and women. Overall, both Adichie and Achebe use their
characters to highlight the ways in which traditional gender roles can be oppressive and limiting.
Through the characters of Eugene and Okonkwo, they show how the strict gender roles in Nigerian
and Igbo society can be harmful to individuals and to society as a whole.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion both writers bring out the gender struggles in society through various devices to try
balance the scales of equality through both genders.

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