Echoes of Power: Portrayal of Women in Selected Akan Proverbs

Proverbs are normally classified as memorable statements that are full of insights, veracities, and scruples. They also embody traditional perceptions and sensitivities in a figurative, static, and easy to memorize format (Mieder, Proverbs Are Never Out of Season). Again, proverbs are philosophical products of careful observations. The aim is to examine and explore traditional portrayals of Akan women. Using nego-feminism, ten Akan proverbs about women are critically examined. The argument is advanced that though the specific contexts that necessitate the use of a particular proverb influence its meaning, careful scrutiny proves that Akans tend to present women as nego-feminist in some of their popular proverbs. Most of the proverbs can be interpreted as stating and implying the complementary role of the woman. The study reveals that women in traditional African societies are ascribed significant spheres of influence that cannot be undermined. This implies a recognition and appreciation of the role/place of women as worthy contributors to society. The conclusion is drawn that such representations of women belie the portrayal of the African woman as a beast of burden. The notion that nego-feminism is a theory that informs the lived experiences of the African woman is firmly established in these proverbs