WOMEN AS AGENTS OF POSITIVE CHANGE: A FEMINIST READING OF SEMBENE OUSMANE’S GOD’S BITS OF WOOD

Abstract

This paper is an analysis of Sembene Ousmane’s portrayal of women as agents of positive 
change in God’s Bits of Wood. It examines critically Ousmane’s creative ingenuity in 
demystifying the myth that women are only fit for the kitchen and reproduction. Sembene 
Ousmane offers a unique account of women in his work by engaging them in progressive 
activities. This paper asserts that the work of Ousmane marks a shift from the status quo and an 
indication that he is a committed feminist writer. The paper equally establishes that his stance 
offers the needed pretext to make the case for women as agents of positive change in the society. 
Finally the paper concludes that characterization of women in this novel by Ousmane has 
created an awareness of the power of the female species as a reliable force in national 
development. In this perspective, the women can now act, participate in the affairs of the nation 
and their voices will be heard. In the textual analysis of the chosen text, a feminist approach has 
been adopted. The study relies on primary and secondary sources. Critical works, mostly from 
the library and the internet, have provided researcher with information concerning the author. 
The research is further based on detailed reading and content analysis of selected of Ousmane.