Interwoven Dynamics of Family and Society in Ikechukwu Ezema's The Reward

Authors

  • Chidimma Blessing Nneka Ike Department of English Language and Literature Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
  • Adaobi Olivia Ihueze Department of English Language and Literature Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

Abstract

This paper investigates the complex relationship between family dynamics and societal influences in Ikechukwu Ezema's poignant novel, The Reward. Despite the paucity of research examining these concepts within the text, family and society are intricately linked and hold deep sociological significance. Through a meticulous analysis of the novel's narrative, this study explores how human actions and behaviour shape the contours of familial relationships and their reverberating impact on the broader societal fabric. By scrutinizing the events and scenarios depicted in The Reward, this paper illuminates the ways in which parenting, upbringing, and familial bonds mold individuals, ultimately influencing their roles and contributions to society. The study offers a nuanced examination of The Reward, unveiling the multifaceted interaction between the microcosm of family and the macrocosm of society. It delves into the complexities of human behaviour, parental influence, and the intricate web of familial dynamics, shedding light on their profound impact on individual development and societal structures. Through a comprehensive analysis, this paper unravels the profound truths woven into Ezema's narrative, accentuating the long-term significance of these sociological concepts in shaping the human experience.

References

Allen, K., & Henderson, A. C. Family Theories: Foundations and Applications. Wiley, 2017.

Broad, Sara Eileen. "Historical or Hysterical? Periodising Family Breakdown in Contemporary Childrens Literature." IBBYlink, 25, 2009, pp. 3-5. Available at https://centaur.reading.ac.uk/4749/

Ezema, Ikechukwu. The Reward. Matag Educational Resource, 2015.

Garman, Kerry. Representations of Families in Children’s Literature. Master’s Thesis in Education, Autumn Term 2022. Department of Education, University of Jyväskylä. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://jyx.jyu.fi/bitstream/handle/123456789/85462/1/URN%253ANBN%253Afi%253Ajyu-202302151750.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjfi5Sjwd-GAxVxUkEAHW98DjsQFnoECA8QAQ&usg=AOvVaw2RxLddT0Qfi5MZleFhIZDa

Hammond, Ron J. Sociology of the Family. Smashwords, 2010.

Kennedy, X. J., & Dana Gioia. Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. Pearson, 2015.

Morris, Kate, Nathan Hughes, Harriet Clarke, & Jerry Tew. Think Family: A Literature Review of Whole Family Approaches. Cabinet Office: Social Exclusion Task Force, 2017.

Downloads

Published

2024-07-08

How to Cite

Interwoven Dynamics of Family and Society in Ikechukwu Ezema’s The Reward. (2024). JOURNAL OF INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MANAGEMENT AND HUMANITIES, 5(1), 186-199. https://journals.unizik.edu.ng/joirmah/article/view/3984