ABSTRACT:
Striking differences and equally striking similarities in women’s experience come to light when the question of marriage is examined. When a breakdown in the marriage occurs, cultural conflicts frequently arise, especially where a woman’s status, self-image and expectations are concerned. Three fictional examples of novels thematizing the breakdown of a marriage from the First and Third Worlds: Marlene Streeruwitz: Verführungen, Mariama Bâ: So long a letter and Mary Okurut: The Official Wife will be analysed, highlighting actions and thoughts of the individual female characters in confronting the problems with which they are faced.
