OPPRESSION

This study examines the oppression of women in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "Purple Hibiscus", highlighting how patriarchal structures shape the experiences of female characters in both novels. Although the texts are set in different historical periods, they reveal the persistent subjugation of women within Nigerian society. In "Things Fall Apart", Achebe portrays a traditional Igbo society where women are marginalized, denied authority, and valued primarily for their domestic and reproductive roles. Through characters such as Ekwefi and Ezinma, the novel exposes the limitations imposed on women despite their resilience and contributions to society. Similarly, "Purple Hibiscus"presents the oppression of women within the modern family setting, where Beatrice and Kambili suffer emotional, psychological, and physical abuse under the authoritarian rule of Eugene. Adichie critiques both patriarchy and religious extremism as instruments of female subjugation while emphasizing women's strength and resistance. Using feminist literary theory as a framework, this study analyzes the forms, causes, and consequences of women's oppression in the two novels. The findings reveal that despite differences in context, both authors expose gender inequality and advocate for the recognition of women's rights, dignity, and agency. The study concludes that the novels serve as powerful critiques of patriarchal domination and contribute to ongoing discussions on gender justice and female empowerment in African literature.