EST. 2026

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English Language / Literary Studies · MSc · REF. TA-1682

The Use of Characterization as a Vehicle for Tradition Versus Modernity in Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus

Abstract

This MSc study investigates the subject matter outlined in the title above through a structured research design appropriate to the MSc level. Using primary and/or secondary data collection methods, the research examines the underlying variables, tests relevant hypotheses, and presents findings with implications for practice and policy. This is placeholder abstract text generated for catalogue preview purposes; the full document contains a complete, topic-specific abstract, literature review, methodology, data analysis, and conclusion.

Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Scholarly interest in Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus has remained strong, reflecting its continued relevance to discussions of Nigerian and African literary identity.

Existing criticism of Purple Hibiscus tends to focus on its broader thematic concerns, with characterization as a stylistic device in service of tradition versus modernity receiving comparatively less sustained attention.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus is widely studied, there is no settled critical consensus on how its characterization functions specifically in relation to tradition versus modernity. This study undertakes a close textual analysis to address that gap.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

  1. To examine the use of characterization in Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus.
  2. To analyze how characterization contributes to the portrayal of tradition versus modernity.
  3. To assess the effectiveness of characterization as a stylistic/thematic tool in the text.
  4. To situate the findings within the broader context of Nigerian literary/linguistic scholarship.

1.4 Research Questions

  1. How is characterization used in Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus?
  2. In what ways does characterization contribute to the portrayal of tradition versus modernity?
  3. How effective is characterization as a stylistic/thematic tool in the text?
  4. How does this reading relate to the broader body of Nigerian literary/linguistic scholarship?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to students and teachers of english language / literary studies, offering a close reading of Buchi Emecheta's Purple Hibiscus that can support classroom discussion and further critical work. It also contributes to the broader body of scholarship on Nigerian literary and linguistic studies.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to a close textual analysis of characterization within Purple Hibiscus, reflecting a MSc-level scope; it does not extend to a full survey of the author's other works.

Chapters Two through Five, references and appendices are available for a one-time fee of ₦50,000.

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