Women and Patriarchy in Recent Feminist Writings: A Study of Selected Works by Zaynab Alkali

Patriarchal moulded structures inhibit the growth and self-actualisation of the woman. In most societies, the woman is seen as the 'the Other Sex' who is meant to behave in a circumscribed way. However, in recent times, women have broken the wall of patriarchy and have moved from the margin to the centre where they control and take full responsibility for their actions. Thus, using the selected works of Zaynab Alklali, this paper discusses the position of the women in modern African society. Adopting the African feminist theory as the framework – which is geared towards entrenching partnership, harmonious living and complementarity between the sexes – the paper examines the aspects of patriarchal society that inhibits the woman and the conscious efforts she makes toward breaking the barrier. The study concludes that although the women in the texts challenge the norms and beliefs that are detrimental to their emotional and physical wellbeing, they still partner with the men in ensuring mutual and peaceful co-existence.