The Portrayal of Women Characters: a Case Study of Ngugi Wa Thiong ‘o’s the River Between

Student: Mariam Bose Kareem (Project, 2025)
Department of English and Literary Studies
Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Sokoto State

Abstract

This research work explores the portrayal of women characters in Ngugi wa Thiong'o's The River Between, focusing on their complex roles within a patriarchal Gikuyu society. The novel features Muthoni and Nyambura, who embody the struggle for agency against male dominance. Muthoni's choice to undergo circumcision reflects her defiance and quest for identity, while Nyambura grapples with familial loyalty and societal expectations. Despite their challenges, both characters exhibit resilience, challenging traditional gender norms. This analysis highlights Ngugi's feminist inclinations, revealing how he critiques patriarchy while simultaneously navigating its limitations in character development.

Keywords
portrayal of women characters Traditional gender norms Patriarchy / Male dominance Feminist Identity and Resilience
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