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Tricksterism and Subversion in Culture and Feminism
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: literature
Abstract
This study examines the works of Francis Imbuga, a renowned Kenyan playwright, who challenges traditional societal norms and advocates for social change through his plays, Aminata and The Burning of Rags. Imbuga explores the tensions between tradition and modernity in African societies and the impact of patriarchal hegemony on women's lives. He challenges traditional gender roles and power dynamics by presenting wise and foresighted female characters who can integrate Christianity with their traditions and respond to change positively. Through his use of tricksterism and subversion, Imbuga advocates for the empowerment and inclusion of women in decision-making processes. This study contextualizes Imbuga's themes within the broader aspirations for social change in Kenya and beyond, highlighting his transformative vision that shifts the focus from solely addressing gender inequalities to encompassing concerns for the overall welfare and dignity of all individuals. Overall, Imbuga's plays are a powerful call for social change and an inspiration to challenge the status quo and strive towards a better, more inclusive society.
Keywords
Tricksterism, Subversion, Culture, Feminism
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1704917,
author = {Levi Wafula Wekesa, Joseph Musungu, Christine Namayi},
title = {Tricksterism and Subversion in Culture and Feminism},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2023},
volume = {7},
number = {2},
pages = {1-8},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1704917.pdf},
abstract = {This study examines the works of Francis Imbuga, a renowned Kenyan playwright, who challenges traditional societal norms and advocates for social change through his plays, Aminata and The Burning of Rags. Imbuga explores the tensions between tradition and modernity in African societies and the impact of patriarchal hegemony on women's lives. He challenges traditional gender roles and power dynamics by presenting wise and foresighted female characters who can integrate Christianity with their traditions and respond to change positively. Through his use of tricksterism and subversion, Imbuga advocates for the empowerment and inclusion of women in decision-making processes. This study contextualizes Imbuga's themes within the broader aspirations for social change in Kenya and beyond, highlighting his transformative vision that shifts the focus from solely addressing gender inequalities to encompassing concerns for the overall welfare and dignity of all individuals. Overall, Imbuga's plays are a powerful call for social change and an inspiration to challenge the status quo and strive towards a better, more inclusive society.},
keywords = {Tricksterism, Subversion, Culture, Feminism},
month = {August},
}