Investigate the participation of African nations in World War II. Where on the African continent were battles fought? Which countries were involved in the conflict? Is it plausible that the characters in Death and the King’s Horseman would be mostly unaware of the war? How accurate and fitting is the term “world war”?

The British used to take pride in saying, “The sun never sets on the British Empire.” Using research and a world map, identify the regions that were under British control in the early 1940s, when Death and the King’s Horseman is set. Then, identify the regions under British rule in 1975, when the play was written. Where does the British Empire extend to today?

Soyinka was brought up as a Christian, but his parents were also Yoruba. What evidence of this rich blend of influences can be found in Death and the King’s Horseman?

Find audio recordings of the types of music featured in this play: a tango, a Viennese waltz, the song “Rule Britannia,” and traditional Yoruba music. How does each style of music reflect the culture that created it?

Research masquerade rituals performed in West Africa, with a special focus on the traditional clothing, masks, and other items used in these ceremonies. How do they compare to the ceremonies performed in your own religious or cultural practices?