Countering gender inequality: The use of free indirect discourse in Adimora-Ezeigbo’s <i>Children of the Eagle</i>

Abstract

Contemporary writers have taken enormous steps in an effort to re-define and focalize on the prejudiced presentation of the African woman in African literature, with themes that advocate and improve the state of the woman to fully partake in and undeniably, lead socio-political struggles in her society. The study, therefore, aims to explore the Feminist approach to Stylistics as a theoretical framework in addressing the issue of gender inequality by identifying the linguistic features of Free Indirect Discourse in the novel, Children of the Eagle (2002) by Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo. Major findings from the study include; Adimora-Ezeigbo’s use of Free Indirect Discourse is dynamic in her representation of women in the text; education is an important tool for accomplishing the goals of gender equality, advancement and unity. Women must also be encouraged and integrated in the areas of leadership, political activities and electoral process by providing leadership skills through gender-sensitive training. (Afr J Reprod Health 2021; 25[5s]: 98-106).