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*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(1)
In Wole Soyinka’s play, “The Lion and the Jewel”, the theme of change is prominently depicted through the characters of Baroka and Lakunle. These two characters embody the conflicting views on change, with Baroka representing tradition and Lakunle symbolizing modernity.
Baroka, the Bale (chief) of the village, resists change and clings to traditional Yoruba culture. He is unwilling to adapt to new ideas and instead seeks to maintain the status quo. This is evident in his desire to add Sidi to his collection of wives, a traditional practice. Baroka’s resistance to change is rooted in his fear of losing his authority and power in the community.
On the other hand, Lakunle, the schoolteacher, is the embodiment of modernity and change. He is determined to modernize his community and introduce new social conventions, even if it means challenging traditional practices. Lakunle’s views on change are shaped by his education and exposure to Western values, which he believes are superior to traditional ways.
The conflict between Baroka and Lakunle’s views on change is a central theme in the play. Their rivalry for Sidi’s love serves as a catalyst for this conflict, highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity. Through their characters, Soyinka illustrates the challenges that arise when traditional values are confronted with modern influences.
Ultimately, the play suggests that change is inevitable and that a balance between tradition and modernity is necessary for progress. The characters of Baroka and Lakunle serve as foils to each other, highlighting the importance of finding a middle ground between preserving cultural heritage and embracing innovation.
*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(2)
In Wole Soyinka’s play, The Lion and the Jewel, the characters of Sidi and Sadiku highlight contrasting aspects of tradition and change within their village, Ilujinle.
Sidi, the young and beautiful village belle, gains fame when her pictures are published in a magazine by a foreign photographer. She is proud of her beauty and newfound fame, which makes her more aware of her power and influence. Sidi represents modernity and the influence of Western culture. Her interactions with Lakunle, the progressive schoolteacher, reflect her openness to new ideas, although she still clings to some traditional values, such as the bride price.
On the other hand, Sadiku, the elderly first wife of Baroka, embodies traditional values and loyalty. She spends her time finding new brides for Baroka and maintaining the customs of the village. Sadiku represents the older generation’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and resists the changes brought by modern influences.
The roles of Sidi and Sadiku in the play further highlight their differences. Sidi, being central to the story, is the object of desire for both Baroka and Lakunle, making her a key figure in the conflict between tradition and modernity. Sadiku, however, serves a supporting role, helping to advance the plot through her interactions with other characters, particularly in her efforts to secure Sidi as Baroka’s next wife.
While Sidi symbolizes the tension and attraction of modern changes, Sadiku’s actions and beliefs underscore the stability and continuity of traditional practices. This contrast between Sidi’s dynamic character and Sadiku’s static one creates a rich tapestry that Soyinka uses to explore the theme of change in the play.
In conclusion, Sidi and Sadiku’s characters provide a clear comparison of the pull between modernity and tradition. Sidi’s beauty and fame make her a symbol of change, while Sadiku’s dedication to cultural customs highlights the importance of tradition. Their interactions and roles in the play underscore the complex relationship between preserving cultural heritage and embracing new influences.
(3)
In Kargbo’s “Let Me Die Alone”, the Poro cult plays a significant role, symbolizing power, tradition, and sacrifice. The Poro cult, a secret society of great importance in Mende land, is typically reserved for men. However, Mama Yoko’s exceptional admission into the cult allows her to assume the role of chief, but at the cost of her own motherhood. This illustrates the cult’s powerful influence and the sacrifices required for leadership.
The Poro cult’s significance is further emphasized by its impact on the characters’ decisions and actions. For instance, Mama Yoko’s willingness to join the cult and sacrifice her chance at motherhood demonstrates her commitment to her people and her desire to lead them. On the other hand, Lamboi’s attempt to dissuade Mama Yoko from joining the cult highlights the societal pressures and expectations placed on women in Mende land.
The Poro cult also represents a patriarchal tradition that restricts women’s roles in society. Mama Yoko being the only exception to this rule underscores the challenges she faces as a female leader in a male-dominated society. Furthermore, the cult’s importance is reinforced by its connection to the throne, as Mama Yoko’s membership is a prerequisite for her to become the queen of Mende land.
In conclusion, the Poro cult is a pivotal element in Kargbo’s Let Me Die Alone, symbolizing power, tradition, and sacrifice. Its significance is reflected in the characters’ actions and decisions, and it serves as a commentary on the societal norms and expectations placed on women in Mende land.
*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(4)
John Kargbo’s play, “Let Me Die Alone”, is a tragedy that delves into themes and elements characteristic of the genre. The narrative is marked by tragic events, including murders, human sacrifices, and betrayals, culminating in the suicidal death of the protagonist, Mama Yoko.
Mama Yoko’s tragic flaw lies in her misplaced trust, which ultimately leads to her downfall. Her honor suicide at the end of the play solidifies her position as a tragic heroine. This flaw is central to the tragic nature of the play, as it underscores the personal failings that lead to her demise. Her trust in the wrong people and her subsequent downfall illustrate the vulnerability and tragic dimension of her character.
The theme of betrayal is a significant element of the play’s tragic nature. Mama Yoko’s experience with betrayal, especially from those close to her, highlights the devastating impact of treachery. This betrayal not only contributes to her downfall but also serves to underscore the theme of misplaced trust and its tragic consequences.
The play employs literary devices such as foreshadowing and soliloquy to enhance its tragic tone. These devices hint at the impending doom and tragic death of the protagonist, adding layers of dramatic irony and tension. The use of soliloquy allows for introspection and a deeper understanding of Mama Yoko’s inner turmoil, while foreshadowing builds a sense of inevitable tragedy.
The incorporation of social commentary, including the exploration of colonialism, gender discrimination, and the excessive desire for power, further reinforces the play’s tragic nature. These themes add depth to the narrative, highlighting the broader societal issues that contribute to the characters’ actions and the unfolding tragedy. The destructive nature of greed and the consequences of one’s actions are central to the play’s message, serving as a poignant commentary on the broader human condition.
The tragic events of the play, including Mama Yoko’s acceptance of a childless life in exchange for power and her ultimate suicide, serve as a powerful commentary on the costs of ambition and the harsh realities of leadership. Mama Yoko’s sacrifices and ultimate fate illustrate the high personal cost of power and the tragic consequences of her decisions.
In conclusion, Let Me Die Alone is a powerful tragedy that effectively employs various elements of the genre to convey its themes and message. Through the character of Mama Yoko, the play explores the complexities of leadership, the impact of betrayal, and the broader social issues that contribute to the unfolding tragedy. The tragic events and literary techniques used in the play craft a powerful story that reflects universal themes of ambition, trust, and the complexities of the human experience.
*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(5)
The title “Fences” in August Wilson’s play holds significant importance as it relates to both the characters and themes of the story. The physical fence that the main character, Troy, builds around his family’s home serves as a symbol of the emotional barriers and boundaries that the characters create to protect themselves and their loved ones.
The title “Fences” represents the symbolic fences the main characters build around themselves to either keep people in or prevent them from getting too close. This is evident in Troy’s relationships with his family members, particularly his sons, where he erects emotional barriers to shield himself from emotional vulnerability.
The title also reflects the themes of the play, including the desire to keep family close, the struggle with racism and intergenerational trauma, and the sense of family duty. The fence serves as a physical manifestation of these themes, highlighting the characters’ attempts to protect themselves and their loved ones from the harsh realities of the world.
Furthermore, the title “Fences” suggests the idea of separation and division, which is a recurring theme in the play. The fence can be seen as a symbol of the emotional and psychological boundaries that the characters create to cope with their experiences of racism, trauma, and personal struggles.
Overall, the title “Fences” is a powerful and thought-provoking symbol that encapsulates the complexities of the characters and themes in the play, highlighting the human need for protection, connection, and understanding.
*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(7)
Alison’s miscarriage in John Osborne’s play “Look Back in Anger” is a pivotal event that profoundly impacts the narrative and the characters involved. This tragic loss symbolizes the ultimate failure of Alison and Jimmy’s turbulent relationship, representing the collapse of their potential future together. The miscarriage not only underscores the emotional and psychological turmoil within their marriage but also serves as a turning point that forces both characters to confront their pain and unresolved issues.
The miscarriage intensifies Alison’s emotional suffering and transformation, marking a shift in her understanding of “real” pain. This experience propels her to reassess her relationship with Jimmy, highlighting the deep emotional and psychological impact on her. Jimmy’s reaction to the miscarriage, characterized by his anger and disillusionment, further exacerbates the tensions between them, illustrating the complexity of their bond and the struggle to connect on a deeper level.
Furthermore, the miscarriage serves as a catalyst for character development, particularly for Helena, who reconciles with Alison after feeling guilty about her initial reaction to the news. This event underscores the themes of suffering, relationships, and societal expectations placed on women, illustrating the profound effects on both Alison and those around her. The miscarriage exposes the vulnerabilities and limitations of the characters, shedding light on the broader societal pressures and personal struggles they face.
In conclusion, Alison’s miscarriage is a crucial element in “Look Back in Anger,” as it explores themes of suffering, relationships, and societal expectations. It serves as a catalyst for character development and transformation, illustrating the profound impact of loss and grief on the individuals involved and the dynamics of their relationships.
*NABTEB LITERATURE*
(8)
(i) Class and Education:
The theme of class and education is a dominant one in the play. The character of Jimmy Porter, a working-class man, struggles with feelings of alienation and frustration due to his limited educational opportunities. His anger and resentment towards the upper class are fueled by his perception of their complacency and lack of understanding of the working-class experience. This theme is also reflected in Jimmy’s relationship with Alison, who represents the upper class, and their struggles to reconcile their differences. Jimmy’s educational background, which is less prestigious than that of the upper class, exacerbates his sense of inferiority and his relentless drive to assert his intellectual superiority over others. The tension between Jimmy and Alison underscores the broader societal divide between classes, illustrating the emotional and psychological impact of class disparity on personal relationships.
(ii) Suffering, Anger, and Complacency:
The theme of suffering, anger, and complacency is another significant theme in the play. Jimmy’s anger and frustration are a response to the complacency of the upper class and the lack of opportunities available to him. His anger is also directed towards Alison, who he feels is too complacent and unwilling to take a stand against societal norms. This theme is closely tied to the theme of class and education, as Jimmy’s anger is fueled by his feelings of injustice and lack of opportunities due to his working-class background. Jimmy’s suffering is not just personal but is also emblematic of the broader disillusionment of the post-war British working class. His relentless anger serves as a critique of a society that he feels is stagnant and unresponsive to the needs and struggles of people like him. The complacency of those around him, particularly Alison, intensifies his sense of isolation and his desire to provoke change, even if through destructive means. This interplay of suffering, anger, and complacency highlights the emotional turmoil and societal tensions that define the characters’ lives in the play.
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