An Appraisal of the Conduct and Character of Men in the Society: Perspectives of Yorùbá Female Novelists

Abstract

In Yorùbá literature, the focus has often been on the roles, struggles and societal expectations of women. However, a notable silence exists in the exploration of men’s character. This apparent oversight exposes the prevailing patriarchal system, which has historically cast men into roles defined by fatherhood and as the head of the family. This narrative portrays men as guardians of traditions, providers and the pillars of family structures. Yet, beneath the surface lies the curiosity concerning the authenticity of these portrayals. Two questions become pertinent: one, do these depictions truly reflect the male identity, or are they just shadows cast by a societal construct designed to reinforce established norms? Two, are men truly capable of meeting the standards set for them, or are they merely being shielded from scrutiny by a narrative that perpetuates their idealized roles? Using the Feminist theory and a Sociological Approach, with narratives from fifteen selected novels authored by Yorùbá women, this study scrutinizes the narratives surrounding the portrayal of male conduct and characters in society by questioning the authenticity of the pedestal upon which men are placed and the realities that shape their lives arising from their conducts, and the character displayed. Findings from the Yorùbá female novelists’ perspectives reveal that lots of men act contrary to the assumed pattern of portrayal. Their shortcomings are unknown to society because the women in the men’s lives cover up the inadequacies of such men. These revelations confirm that the portrayal of men as superhuman beings does not truly represent their conduct and character in society.