AN APPRAISAL OF THE INFLUENCE OF TOXIC FEMINIST LITERATURE ON THE ACCEPTANCE OF SINGLE MOTHERHOOD: A STUDY OF LITERARY CIRCLES IN ENUGU

Background of the Study

Literature has always been a powerful tool for shaping societal norms, ideologies, and values. In recent years, the rise of toxic feminism in literary circles has introduced radical feminist ideologies that challenge traditional family structures and advocate for women's autonomy, independence, and freedom, even at the expense of conventional marital norms. The portrayal of single motherhood in toxic feminist literature often reframes it as an empowered choice, rather than a consequence of failed relationships or societal disapproval.

In Enugu, a city known for its educational and cultural activities, literary circles have become a space for engaging with feminist literature. This study aims to evaluate how toxic feminist literature influences the acceptance of single motherhood in Enugu. By analyzing literary works that propagate feminist ideologies and how they are received by readers and literary enthusiasts, this research will explore how these narratives contribute to changing perceptions of single motherhood and its normalization in Nigerian society.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist literature has long been instrumental in challenging gender norms and advocating for women’s rights, the influence of toxic feminist literature on the acceptance of single motherhood has not been adequately explored. This study will investigate the impact of such literature on literary circles in Enugu, particularly focusing on how these works shape attitudes toward single motherhood and challenge traditional views of family structures.

 

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate the influence of toxic feminist literature on perceptions of single motherhood in Enugu’s literary circles.

To examine how feminist literature portrays single motherhood and its acceptance within Nigerian society.

To assess the broader social implications of toxic feminist literature on family structures, particularly the normalization of single motherhood.

 

Research Questions

How does toxic feminist literature influence the acceptance of single motherhood in Enugu’s literary circles?

What role does feminist literature play in reshaping societal attitudes towards single motherhood in Nigeria?

How do readers and literary enthusiasts in Enugu engage with narratives about single motherhood in toxic feminist literature?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it explores the relationship between feminist literature and societal perceptions of single motherhood, particularly in the context of Enugu’s literary community. By evaluating how toxic feminist literature is received and its impact on perceptions of single motherhood, this research will contribute to understanding how literature can normalize or challenge family structures. The findings will be useful for scholars, policymakers, and literary critics interested in the intersection of feminism, literature, and family dynamics.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on literary circles in Enugu and the influence of toxic feminist literature on perceptions of single motherhood. The research will analyze specific literary works that engage with feminist themes, but will not extend to general feminist movements outside of the literary context. The study will be limited to exploring the responses of readers and literary critics, without examining the broader societal impact beyond literary circles.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A radical form of feminism that promotes extreme views on gender relations, often rejecting traditional gender roles and advocating for the dissolution of patriarchal family structures.

Single motherhood: The condition of a mother raising her child independently, without the support or involvement of a partner.

Feminist literature: Literary works that focus on themes of gender equality, women’s rights, and social justice, often challenging traditional gender roles and norms.

 

References

Chijioke, F. K. (2020). Feminist literature and its impact on the normalization of single motherhood in Nigeria. Journal of African Literary Studies, 22(4), 56-70. Retrieved from https://www.jals.org/feminist-literature-single-motherhood

Okafor, T. M. (2021). Toxic feminist narratives and their influence on family structures in Enugu. Nigerian Journal of Literary Studies, 29(1), 103-115. Retrieved from https://www.njls.org/toxic-feminism-family-structures