This paper deals with womanhood in Tiv literary genres. It reinterprets gender roles in an African society. The Tiv of Middle-Belt Nigeria are a unique ethnic nationality whose feminine gender is regarded as the heart-beat of the householder, the measure of all things for the husband and the epicenter of the community. Contrary to the conclusion of the African Neo-cultural positivists, the roles Tiv traditional social system assigns to the feminine gender noble roles that elevate than demean her status as a woman. She is neither marginalized nor oppressed and exploited in social, political, economic and religious spheres. Gender discrimination is sine qua non in traditional society though, it is benevolent.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Feminism and Tiv Society
- Gender in Tiv Literary Genres
- The Positive Tiv Woman
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the role of women in Tiv society, challenging the notion that they are marginalized or oppressed. It argues that while gender discrimination exists, it is benevolent, and women's roles are integral to the stability and well-being of the community. The paper analyzes Tiv social structures, literary genres, and cultural attitudes to demonstrate how women's contributions are valued and essential.
- The role of women in traditional Tiv society
- The different types of sexism present in Tiv culture (benevolent, benign, malignant)
- The ways in which Tiv literature reflects gender roles
- The concept of empowerment within the Tiv social system
- A comparative analysis of Tiv societal views on gender compared to Western Feminism
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the paper by presenting the core argument: that Tiv women, contrary to many feminist viewpoints, are not oppressed but hold crucial, valued positions within their society. It introduces the concept of the "kwase Tiv" (Tiv woman) as the epicenter of the household and community and challenges the notion of needing liberation or centering for Tiv women, proposing instead a focus on further empowerment.
Feminism and Tiv Society: This chapter delves into the complexities of sexism within Tiv society, differentiating between benevolent, benign, and malignant forms. It uses examples like the prioritization of women and children during emergencies and the prevalence of polygamy to illustrate the nuanced ways gender roles are perceived and practiced. The chapter also critiques existing ethnographic data, arguing that a comprehensive understanding of Tiv society requires considering the interconnectedness of customs and values. It contrasts the traditional Tiv view on gender with Western Feminist thought, highlighting the importance of understanding the Tiv perspective within its own cultural context. The chapter particularly emphasizes the concept of complementarity between men and women within the Tiv system.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Womanhood, Tiv Woman, Kwase Tiv, Gender Discrimination, Empowerment, Gender Centering, Tiv Society, Benevolent Sexism, Benign Sexism, Malignant Sexism, African Feminism, Gender Roles, Polygamy, Traditional African Society, Complementarity.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Analysis of Gender Roles in Tiv Society
What is the main argument of this paper?
The paper challenges the common Western feminist perspective on the role of women in Tiv society. It argues that Tiv women, while facing some forms of gender discrimination, are not oppressed but hold crucial and valued positions within their community. The paper emphasizes the importance of understanding Tiv societal structures and cultural values within their own context, rather than applying a Western framework.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
The paper explores several key themes, including the role of women in traditional Tiv society, the different types of sexism present in Tiv culture (benevolent, benign, and malignant), how Tiv literature reflects gender roles, the concept of empowerment within the Tiv social system, and a comparative analysis of Tiv societal views on gender compared to Western Feminism. It focuses on the concept of complementarity between men and women within the Tiv social structure.
What types of sexism are discussed in relation to Tiv society?
The paper differentiates between three types of sexism: benevolent, benign, and malignant. It analyzes how these different forms manifest within the Tiv context, providing examples to illustrate the nuanced nature of gender relations. The paper argues that simply labeling all gender-based practices as oppressive overlooks the complexities of the Tiv social system.
How does the paper analyze the role of women in Tiv society?
The analysis utilizes a multi-faceted approach, examining Tiv social structures, literary genres, and cultural attitudes. It draws examples from everyday life and cultural practices to demonstrate the significance and value placed on women's contributions to family and community well-being. The paper also challenges previous ethnographic interpretations, proposing a more nuanced understanding of Tiv gender roles.
What is the significance of the "Kwase Tiv" concept?
The "Kwase Tiv" (Tiv woman) is presented as the central figure of the household and community. The paper uses this concept to highlight the importance of women's roles and to counter the idea that Tiv women require liberation or "centering" in the same way as women in some Western societies. The focus is instead on further empowerment within the existing social framework.
How does the paper compare Tiv societal views on gender with Western Feminism?
The paper engages in a critical comparison between the traditional Tiv perspective on gender and Western Feminist thought. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the Tiv perspective within its own cultural context and avoids imposing Western frameworks on a different cultural system. The paper highlights the fundamental differences in values and approaches between the two perspectives.
What are the key takeaways from the chapter summaries?
The chapter summaries provide a concise overview of the main arguments and findings of each section. The introduction lays out the central thesis, while subsequent chapters delve into specific aspects of gender roles, sexism, and cultural perspectives. The concluding chapter synthesizes the key findings and reinforces the central argument of the paper.
What are the key words associated with this research?
Key words include Womanhood, Tiv Woman, Kwase Tiv, Gender Discrimination, Empowerment, Gender Centering, Tiv Society, Benevolent Sexism, Benign Sexism, Malignant Sexism, African Feminism, Gender Roles, Polygamy, Traditional African Society, and Complementarity.
- Quote paper
- Alloy S. Ihuah (Author), 2021, Womanhood in Tiv Literary Genres. A Reinterpretation of Gender Roles in an African Society, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1163000
