Women’s Contribution to the Development of Anglophone Cameroonian Drama: The Plays of Anne Tanyi-Tang

This article explores the plays of Cameroonian female playwright Anne Tanyi-Tang, arguing that they make a significant contribution to anglo-phone Cameroonian drama, particularly in the representation of women and articulation of female concerns. The plays analyzed in this article reveal that, although trapped in deeply patriarchal cultures, women draw on their inner strengths and female networks to create spaces for themselves—spaces through which they attain empowerment and self-definition. Tanyi-Tang’s female characters are strikingly self-willed and independent, relying on their intellect to combat familial and social challenges. They stand in stark contrast to the stereotypical characters portrayed by male playwrights, such as Bole Butake, in whose drama women often resort to sexual favors or mischief to achieve set goals. By depicting urban women contending not only with patriarchy in all its forms, but also with postcolonial disillusionment, Tanyi-Tang infuses anglophone Cameroonian drama with a new vision, one that embraces powerful, self-actualized women and celebrates women’s achievements in the public and private spheres.