Tracing Gender in the Personal, Familial and Socio- Political History of Nelson Mandela - Research

Tracing Gender in the Personal, Familial and Socio- Political History of Nelson Mandela - Research

Author: 
Naidoo, Kammila
Publisher: 
Adonis & Abbey
Date published: 
2018
Record type: 
Journal Title: 
AFFRIKA: Journal of Politics, Economics and Society
Source: 
AFFRIKA Journal of Politics, Economics and Society, Vol 8, No. 2, 2018, pp. 47 - 66
Abstract: 

One of the most difficult tasks scholars may face is to map, in a succinct and relatively dispassionate way, the contribution made by an iconic or public figure in shaping national perceptions and policy. This is particularly true for gender as it is encompassed in both the personal and public practice of a life. In the case of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, a life lived in the limelight for much of his close to 100 years, one notes a progression and multi-dimensionality in reviewing his views of, and relationships with, women. While he is described as distinctly patriarchal, throughout his life he was drawn to and supported by strong-willed and powerful women. This article traces the reconfiguring of Mandela's gendered thinking through different phases of his life as evident in biographies, media interviews, and various texts. The purpose is to identify philosophical and gendered tenets apparent in Mandela's writings and life story as an invitation to renew critical debate about his legacy particularly as it pertains to gender, family life, and women's emancipation.

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CITATION: Naidoo, Kammila. Tracing Gender in the Personal, Familial and Socio- Political History of Nelson Mandela - Research . : Adonis & Abbey , 2018. AFFRIKA Journal of Politics, Economics and Society, Vol 8, No. 2, 2018, pp. 47 - 66 - Available at: https://library.au.int/tracing-gender-personal-familial-and-socio-political-history-nelson-mandela-research