Efuru

novel by Nwapa

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July 17, 2026

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Efuru is the debut novel by Nigerian author Flora Nwapa, published in 1966. The novel is based on an Igbo folktale about a woman chosen by the gods. It offers a perspective on Igbo life and customs from a woman's viewpoint. Nwapa's work is significant for its portrayal of women in Nigerian society, exploring their roles and challenges within both traditional and modern contexts.12

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African literature
English
Flora Nwapa wrote the novel Efuru (1966), the story of a talented, brilliant, and beautiful woman who, living in a small community, is confined by tradition. A woman’s fundamental role, childbearing, is prescribed for her, and if she does not fulfill that role she suffers the negative criticism of members…
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Flora Nwapa wrote the novel Efuru (1966), the story of a talented, brilliant, and beautiful woman who, living in a small community, is confined by tradition. A woman’s fundamental role, childbearing, is prescribed for her, and if she does not fulfill that role she suffers the negative criticism of members…
Read More