Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part D (2024)

The theme of gendered violence and its influence on extramarital affairs are central to many literary works. Among them, two significant short stories: Can Themba's "The Suit" and Bessie Head's "The Collector of Treasures." Both stories, set in South Africa and Botswana, respectively, reflect the social and cultural dynamics of their time, where patriarchal norms and systemic violence profoundly affect personal relationships. "The Suit" examines the psychological cruelty and emotional abuse experienced by the characters, while "The Collector of Treasures" delves into the physical and emotional toll of domestic violence. By analyzing these narratives, the paper aims to understand how gendered violence acts as both a catalyst and a consequence of extramarital affairs, highlighting the complex interplay between power, control, and resistance in intimate relationships. This study will also explore how these stories critique societal expectations and offer nuanced perspectives on love, betrayal, and survival.