A comparative analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Aadichie's purple hibiscus(2003) and Ellen Banda-Aaku's patchwork(2011)
Date
2017
Authors
Kang'ombe, Mutale Mathew
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The study was a comparative analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus (2003)
and Ellen Banda-Aaku’s Patchwork (2011). The aim of the study was to identify the similarities
and differences in the two works. In order to achieve the overall aim of the study in line with the
objectives, this study used an eclectic approach in which theories of feminism, narratology and
intertextuality were used accordingly. This study was prompted by the realization that both
Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie’ Purple Hibiscus and Banda Aaku’s Patchwork represent the new
phase of African female writing. Preliminary readings indicated that the two feminist writers
bear similarities in their aim of creating a free and just society for all. It was also realized that
these writers want to see women that are not only liberated from the pangs of patriarchy but are
also economically empowered. They share a similarity in their attempt to give voice to the
women. They both believe that women like men have a voice which had earlier been denied to
them by earlier African male writers who not only projected women as inferior to man but also
gave women the status of a ‘mule.’ The writers are also concerned about textual misconception
of women in which everything is done from the male point of view including narration itself.
They create females who tell their stories of male subjugation and the eventual liberation entirely
from their perspective. The two writers continue to embrace the need for transformation of
society through their works. The change advocated for by these two authors is spearheaded
through their stylistic, aesthetic, conceptual as well as their thematic orientations. However, a
closer analysis of the two texts revealed that there were significant differences between the two
texts. The two works differ in respect to narrative tense, characterization, narrative structure and
plot, focalization and thematically. There characters are increasingly becoming more
independent, aggressive and self styled when compared. There is continuity with regards to
negotiating for more space and inclusion of the female as indicated between the two works.
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Consequently, this study is a validation of the changes that we continue to witness that are being
championed by such novelists in their works.
Description
Thesis
Keywords
Narratology--Female writers--Zambia , Feminism--Zambia