Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Social Sciences, Humanities and Education
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Masculine Identities and Women’s Subjugation: An Analysis of the Purple Violet of Oshaantu and Purple Hibiscus
Funmilola Kemi Megbowon
ABSTRACT:
Background: Masculinity is expressed and experienced differently by individuals. Although some men reject and challenge traditional ideals of masculinity that promote patriarchy and women subjugation, some others may conform strictly to these norms. An understanding of the shapers of individual differences in masculinity is one of the ways’ of addressing the social problem of women’s subjugation in society. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to i) investigate the shapers and impacts of different masculine identities as depicted in the texts, and ii) explore possible interventions to foster desirable masculinities in society. Method: This study draws on feminist and socio-cultural theories, utilises textual and interpretative analytical techniques to analyse Neshani’s The Purple Violet of Oshaantu and Chimamanda Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus. Finding: The authors highlight contrasting depictions of men’s behaviours towards women and their respective shapers: good men demonstrate respect and kindness, influenced by education and positive role models, while bad men subjugate women through control and violence, often rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. Conclusion: The study encourages initiatives that promote positive role models and provide education, engage in critical dialogue within communities to challenge and transform harmful cultural and religious beliefs, foster dialogue, and awareness: facilitate open and honest dialogue about gender roles, power dynamics, and masculinity within communities and institutions. Raise awareness about the negative consequences of patriarchal norms and encourage individuals to challenge and resist oppressive systems. The study contributes to the understanding of masculinity dynamics and provides insights that can inform efforts to promote gender equality and challenge harmful patriarchal norms in society.
keywords: Masculinity, Women’s Subjugation, Patriarchy, Feminism, Literary Analysis