Christianity, Monogamy and Second Marriage Politics

Abstract

This article examines how Christianity, monogamy and second marriages function as both inclusive and exclusionary social institutions in Sitwala Imenda’s novella, Unmarried Wife. I employ close reading and thematic analysis to explore the experiences of protagonists Tsepo Molefe and Bongiwe, understanding how marriage and faith shape their agency and societal acceptance. It draws ideas from African feminisms, particularly Stiwanism and Nego-feminism. The study aims to unveil the gendered power dynamics that shape characters’ lives. Specifically, Stiwanism is applied to highlight how families serve as a site for inclusive social transformation. In contrast, Nego-feminism highlights the strategies that (wo)men employ to navigate and subvert patriarchal limitations, showcasing their agency even in restrictive environments. These frameworks illustrate how Tsepo Molefe and Bongiwe’s quest for love, recognition, and security within a second marriage is challenged and validated by institutional forces.  In this regard, the article argues that although Christianity and monogamy often reinforce exclusionary norms, particularly for unmarried mothers and their children, second marriages present a contested alternative for social inclusion. Ultimately, the study argues that negotiation and collaboration between genders are crucial for fostering inclusive social change. By challenging prevailing narratives surrounding marriage, faith, and legal structures, Unmarried Wife encourages readers to re-examine the complexities of relationships and family life within rapidly evolving African societies. Keywords: Contested space, Exclusion, Inclusion, Marginalisation, Unmarried mothers, Vulnerabilities. https://dx.doi.org/10.56279/ummaj.v12i1.10