Masculinity in early African times: transformational presentations in Achebe’s Things fall apart

Abstract

The paper considered the concept of masculinity in relation to traditional African gender relations. The paper argued that colonial imposed definitions of patriarchy and matriarchy were designed to create hierarchy within the African society which did not exist before. Through the works of various African scholars, the paper took another look at gender relations in order to show how these relations define masculinity. Based on this, the paper went on to use that framework to analyse Chinua Achebe’s representation of various masculine forms. Through the eyes of Achebe’s men, the paper highlighted some of the variables responsible for the restructuring of the African masculinity and ultimately gender relations in Africa.

Key Words: Africa; masculinity; matriarchy; violence; culture