ENG2603
ASSIGNMENT 1 2025
UNIQUE NO:
DUE DATE: MAY 2025
, ENG2603 Assignment 1:
Question 1: Essay on Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga
Topic: Women’s ‘entrapment’ and ‘escape’
Thesis Suggestion:
In Nervous Conditions, Tsitsi Dangarembga explores the psychological and societal
entrapment of women under colonial and patriarchal systems, while also presenting the
possibility—however constrained—of resistance and escape. The characters of Tambu,
Maiguru, Lucia, and Nyasha each illustrate different dimensions of entrapment and
attempts at escape.
Structure and Points to Cover:
Introduction:
Define “entrapment” and “escape” in the context of patriarchy and colonization.
Mention that the novel critiques both colonial and traditional Shona structures
that limit women.
Thesis statement outlining how each woman reflects these themes.
Body Paragraphs:
1. Tambu:
o Entrapment: Poverty, gender roles (brother gets preference for education).
o Escape: Education becomes her route out; she resists being like her
mother.
o But also question: Does her education alienate her from her roots?
2. Maiguru:
ASSIGNMENT 1 2025
UNIQUE NO:
DUE DATE: MAY 2025
, ENG2603 Assignment 1:
Question 1: Essay on Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga
Topic: Women’s ‘entrapment’ and ‘escape’
Thesis Suggestion:
In Nervous Conditions, Tsitsi Dangarembga explores the psychological and societal
entrapment of women under colonial and patriarchal systems, while also presenting the
possibility—however constrained—of resistance and escape. The characters of Tambu,
Maiguru, Lucia, and Nyasha each illustrate different dimensions of entrapment and
attempts at escape.
Structure and Points to Cover:
Introduction:
Define “entrapment” and “escape” in the context of patriarchy and colonization.
Mention that the novel critiques both colonial and traditional Shona structures
that limit women.
Thesis statement outlining how each woman reflects these themes.
Body Paragraphs:
1. Tambu:
o Entrapment: Poverty, gender roles (brother gets preference for education).
o Escape: Education becomes her route out; she resists being like her
mother.
o But also question: Does her education alienate her from her roots?
2. Maiguru:
