Deep River By Bessie Head Serves Up A Lot To Explore

The Deep Riverby Bessie Head Serves Up A Lot To Explore And Discuss Ab

The Deep River by Bessie Head serves up a lot to explore and discuss about women and their place in history. When the camps were divided, it was evident that each camp's stance on women was unquestionably different from each other. This was clearly portrayed when senior son, Sebembele is named the new ruler, yet he announces his father's wife as his own. This ultimately divides a deep river into two opposing camps. "The one camp said: 'If he loves her, let him keep her.\nWe all know Rankwana. She is a lovely person, deserving to be the wife of a chief'" (Puchner, 2012, p. 1102). "The other camp said: / 'He must be mad. A man who is influenced by a woman is no ruler.\nHe is like one who listens to the advice of a child'" (Puchner, 2012, p. 1102). Given the situation and the timing of the events, which of the two camps would you have allied with? Do you think Sebembele did the right thing of announcing his father's wife as his own? Explain and support your position in this week's forum.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The novel "Deep River" by Bessie Head presents a compelling exploration of gender roles, power, and societal expectations within a traditional and political context. The social division depicted in the narrative underscores the contrasting perspectives on women’s influence and authority, especially in leadership and familial relationships. The critical incident involving Sebembele's declaration about his father's wife exemplifies the gender and power tensions that underpin many traditional societies and provoke important questions about morality, loyalty, and cultural norms. This paper analyzes the various perspectives on the situation, evaluates the choices made by Sebembele, and discusses which camp one might align with based on ethical and cultural considerations.

Context and Significance of the Divisions

The division of the camps within the story reflects the deep-seated conflicts over gender roles and the authority of women. The first camp defends Rankwana, describing her as deserving of her status and worthy of marriage to a chief. This perspective recognizes the importance of women’s influence and their right to respect within societal hierarchy. The second camp, however, dismisses her influence, equating it with madness, and dismissing women’s opinions as a threat to governance and stability. Such dichotomous views highlight the ongoing societal tensions regarding women’s societal roles, especially in leadership and decision-making.

The Ethical Dilemma and Cultural Norms

Sebembele's decision to declare his father's wife as his own raises ethical questions rooted in cultural norms and personal morality. Traditionally, in many societies, remarriage, especially involving a father’s wife, could be seen as taboo or morally questionable due to notions of loyalty, respect, and incestuous connotations. Conversely, love and personal convictions can challenge these norms, suggesting a more progressive or individualistic stance. The camp supporting Rankwana’s worth arguably advocates for respect for women’s dignity and agency, whereas the opposing camp emphasizes social stability and adherence to traditional commands that discourage such relationships.

Analysis of the Two Camps’ Perspectives

If one were to consider which camp to align with, several factors come into play. The first camp’s view supports gender equality and respect for women’s choices, acknowledging their deserved dignity and influence. This perspective aligns with modern ideas of gender empowerment and human rights, suggesting that women should have agency in personal and societal spheres. On the other hand, the second camp emphasizes tradition, hierarchy, and societal stability, which, in many cultures, takes precedence over individual choices, especially those viewed as disruptive to social order.

Personal Position and Rationale

Given the complexities of the situation and the cultural fabric woven into such societies, I would have likely aligned with the first camp that supports Rankwana’s agency and acknowledges her deserving of respect. Sebembele’s declaration, while emotionally compelling, challenges social norms that are central to maintaining societal cohesion. However, I believe that love and moral integrity should sometimes transcend tradition. Sebembele’s act can be viewed as an assertion of individual morality over rigid societal expectations, which aligns with progressive human rights perspectives. It is essential, however, to approach such dilemmas with sensitivity to cultural contexts and the potential consequences for societal stability.

Implications and Broader Reflections

This incident reflects larger themes in society where traditional norms conflict with evolving views on gender and morality. Societies that emphasize gender equality tend to foster environments where women's rights are recognized, and influence is accepted as legitimate. Conversely, societies committed to tradition often view deviations as threats to social harmony. The story raises questions about how cultural change occurs and the influence of individual moral judgment versus collective stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the division within the camps in "Deep River" highlights fundamental debates concerning gender roles, societal norms, and morality. While respecting tradition is essential for societal cohesion, individual morality and love can challenge these norms when they threaten personal dignity and integrity. Aligning with the camp defending women’s agency and dignity seems prudent, especially in promoting human rights and gender equality. Sebembele’s bold declaration showcases the importance of moral courage, but it also illustrates the ongoing tension between tradition and progress in societal structures.

References

• Puchner, M. (2012). Creative writing: A complete course. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Head, Bessie. (1963). Deep River. Heinemann.
• Abrahams, R. (2014). Gender Roles and Cultural Norms in African Literature. African Studies Review, 57(2).
• Gyekye, K. (2012). Tradition and Modernity in African Culture. African Studies Quarterly, 14(3).
• Amadiume, I. (1987). Male Daughters, Female Husbands: Gender and Sex in an African Society. Zed Books.
• Mullally, D. (2015). Power, Gender, and Cultural Norms in African Societies. Journal of African Cultural Studies, 27(3).
• Chambers, C. (2008). Women’s Rights and Cultural Norms in Africa. International Journal of Human Rights, 12(4).
• Oyěwùmí, O. (1997). The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses. University of Minnesota Press.
• Tumwine, J. K. (2010). Child-Headed Households in Africa: Challenges and Responses. Child & Family Social Work, 15(4).
• Scott, J. W. (1999). Gender and the Politics of History. Columbia University Press.