Representations of Female Agency, Oral Aesthetics and Afrocentric Consciousness in Selected Novels of Veronique Tadjo and Yvonne Vera

Abstract

This paper studies the intersection of African feminist ethics, cultural preservation, and transmission through the lens of oral literature, focusing on the literary works of Veronique Tadjo and Yvonne Vera. Drawing on a theoretical framework rooted in African feminist thought, the study seeks to explain the subtle ways these authors engage with and contribute to conserving cultural values and gender perspectives. The paper engages a combination of intersectionality and womanist theories to analyse Tadjo and Vera's fictions. These theories provide a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between gender, culture, and other social categories. By utilising these frameworks, the study seeks to unravel the layers of meaning embedded in the narratives, unveiling the authors' deliberate choices in portraying African women's experiences within their cultural contexts. Furthermore, the role of oral literature as a dynamic medium for cultural preservation and transmission is examined. The paper highlights Tadjo and Vera’s use of oral storytelling traditions to convey feminist messages and challenge prevailing norms. This exploration aims to underscore the importance of oral literature as a living archive, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage while promoting feminist ideals. The paper's objectives include critically analysing selected works, identifying recurring themes related to African feminist ethics, and evaluating the effectiveness of oral literature in conveying these messages. By deploying a theoretical framework firmly rooted in African feminist thought, this study aspires to contribute to a deeper understanding of how literature, specifically oral traditions, can be a powerful tool for cultural preservation and feminist discourse in the African context.