Emancipation of Ghanaian Women in the Light of Efua Sutherland’s The Marriage of Anansewa

Abstract

This paper takes a critical look at some practices associated with the marriage institution that militate against the emancipation of women in the traditional Ghanaian society. It identifies ‘child marriage’ and ‘bride wealth’ as two such practices. These practices also form part of the existing culture. The study is conducted in reference to “The marriage of Anansewa”, a drama written by Efua T. Sutherland, a renowned female Ghanaian writer. The paper explores the attempt by Sutherland and other writers of feminine inclinations to reject aspects of the cultural practices that have the potential to trample upon the rights of women in the society. More importantly, the study also seeks to highlight measures that project the image of women and empower them in the traditional Ghanaian society.