Gender stereotypes are the outdated preconceptions of the status, behavior, and appearance which men and women are defined by. Gender stereotypes are incredibly detrimental notions that have been holding back our society’s collective growth and progress because they are constructs that prevent opportunities, self expression, and …show more content…
Enzima, had so much potential as a member of the clan, but as a female was required to cook, clean and bear children. Throughout the story, her father repeats that “I wish she were a boy . . . She understands things so well” (C. Achebe 173). This shows that even though she inherited Okonkwo’s strength and best qualities, as a women, she would not acquire the respect or acceptance like a man would bearing these qualities. The only way to achieve success for Enzima from anything besides motherhood was if she had been born a boy. Achebe displays through Enzima how gender stereotypes squander potential by