Resilience of Women Characters in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus and Half of a Yellow Sun

Abstract

Women in war literature across the globe are usually described as the most vulnerable victims along with the children. It is true to a great extent. Women are molested and abducted during the war. They become the victims of violence, suffering the trauma throughout their life. Due to the stigma attached to rape in many societies, it becomes difficult for women to readjust in society after such incidents. The present study deals with the works of ChimamandaNgozi Adichie, namely Purple Hibiscus and Half of a Yellow Sun, that show the horrors of civil war in Nigeria. Adichie’s treatment of women in her works is different as they refuse to be voiceless victims. They are equal partners with men in the efforts to emerge survivors in the face of death and devastation. In many cases, women prove better than men. Even in the worst moments of adversity, they remain calm and do not lose hope providing solace and strength to their counterparts in moments of utter despair. They show their strength in the times of war and help the nation in every way possible. While enduring suffering, they rise above the difficulties proving their perseverance.