The African family is under the management of the head of the family, whose duty is to ensure the smooth running of the family. Demonstrate how the authors address this issue of management.

In many African societies, the head of the family is typically the father or the eldest male member of the family. This individual is responsible for making important decisions, providing for the family's needs, and ensuring the well-being of all family members.

In their works, authors often address the role of the head of the family in managing the household and the challenges they face in fulfilling their responsibilities. They may depict the head of the family as a strong and authoritative figure who is respected by other family members and plays a central role in maintaining order and harmony within the family.

Authors may also explore the complexities of family dynamics and the tensions that can arise when the head of the family struggles to balance their responsibilities with the needs and desires of other family members. They may highlight the importance of communication, compromise, and mutual respect in ensuring the smooth running of the family and resolving conflicts that may arise.

Overall, authors address the issue of family management in African societies by portraying the head of the family as a central figure who plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and well-being of the family unit. They explore the challenges and responsibilities that come with this role and emphasize the importance of effective leadership and communication in ensuring the success and happiness of the family.

In Ama Ata Aidoo's "Changes: A Love Story"

- Patriarchal authority: Nii Kwesi, the older, wealthy husband, exerts control over his young wife, Esi, through traditional marital norms and economic power.
- Subordination of women: Esi is expected to obey her husband's wishes and to serve his needs, even at her own expense.
- Conflict between modernity and tradition: Esi's desire for education and independence clashes with Nii Kwesi's patriarchal expectations.

In Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart"

- Hierarchical family structure: The Igbo family is led by the oldest male, who has authority over his wives, children, and other family members.
- Responsibility of the head: Okonkwo, the protagonist, is the head of his family and is responsible for its well-being, including providing food, shelter, and protection.
- Collective decision-making: While the head has final authority, important decisions are often made in consultation with the family council, which includes senior elders.

In Ngugi wa Thiong'o's "The River Between"

- Gendered division of labor: In the Gikuyu community, men are responsible for farming and herding, while women are primarily responsible for domestic tasks and childrearing.
- Traditional power dynamics: The elder men of the community hold authority and make decisions that impact all family members.
- Challenges to authority: The arrival of Christianity and Western education introduces new ideas about family structure and gender roles, challenging traditional power dynamics.

In Camara Laye's "The African Child"

- Importance of respect and obedience: Camara's father emphasizes the importance of respect for elders and obedience to parental authority.
- Initiation rituals: Traditional initiation rituals mark the transition from childhood to adulthood and reinforce the family's hierarchical structure.
- Intergenerational bonds: The family is seen as a repository of knowledge and tradition, with strong bonds between generations.

By exploring these complex and evolving relationships, the authors demonstrate the importance of family structure, gender roles, and the dynamics of authority within African families.