Themes: Tradition versus Progress
Each major character in the play expresses an opinion about the notion of progress. Lakunle is the only character who supports modernization, but he is not a credible source of information. Other characters in the play mock him, and he is unaware of his own displays of ignorance. That Lakunle possesses a provincial mindset regarding gender norms suggests that his version of progress is incomplete or misguided. Lakunle lacks self-awareness and common sense, which renders his character and his musings about progress untrustworthy.
Sidi, Sadiku, and Baroka all oppose progress, revealing their resistance to change in different ways. For example, Lakunle’s idealized perceptions of Lagos and other modern cities mean little to Sidi; his words at times elevate her and her potential status as his wife, but she mocks his notions of equality, especially when he asserts his belief that men are more intelligent than women. Sidi and Sadiku resist change even though change might mean more equality for women; both women prefer traditional ways of life for their ideological safety and practicality. Ironically, Sidi would rather be possessed by Baroka, the Bale of the village, than be subjected to the modern marriage between equals that Lakunle suggests.
Baroka states that progress is simply a way to ensure that all people conform to new norms. He believes that everything will become mechanized, resulting in an unfortunate sameness. Baroka fears the repetition and boredom of such a life. Tradition works much better for Baroka than progress; if modernity arrives in Ilujinle, he may become less able to enjoy his wives, present and future, as women may develop opinions that limit his pleasure. Already, Baroka understands how modern notions like a union enable his servants to take time off from work; the servants may be happier now that they have unionized, but Baroka resents their time away from his jurisdiction, believing that their position as his underlings should be constant.
Expert Q&A
In The Lion and the Jewel, how do characters represent tradition and modernity?
In Wole Soyinka’s play, characters represent tradition and modernity through their actions and beliefs. Lakunie, the school teacher, embodies modernity, opposing traditional practices like the bride price, while Sidi, the "jewel," upholds these customs, reflecting tradition. Sadiku supports traditional culture and mocks Lakunie’s modern views, highlighting a cultural clash. Their interactions illustrate the tension between preserving traditional African values and embracing modern changes in their village.
What are two traditional beliefs or customs that Lakunle follows in "The Lion and the Jewel"?
Lakunle in "The Lion and the Jewel" supports modernization but adheres to traditional beliefs when it suits him. He swears by Sango, the Yoruba god of Thunder, indicating his traditional religious beliefs. Additionally, he references a traditional law to justify not paying Sidi's bride-price, as it states a man need not pay if the woman is not a virgin. These instances highlight his selective adherence to traditional customs.
What three aspects of modern society does Lakunle want to introduce to Ilujinle and their potential benefits?
Lakunle wants to introduce three key aspects of modern society to Ilujinle: infrastructure, social practices, and educational opportunities. He advocates for building roads to connect the village to the outside world, replacing traditional clay pots with hygienic saucepans, and limiting polygamy to enhance men's vitality. Lakunle also suggests creating parks, schools for ballroom dancing, and venues for cocktail parties, believing that modernization is crucial for the village's progress and global connection.
The depiction and symbolism of African culture and values in Wole Soyinka's The Lion and the Jewel
In The Lion and the Jewel, Baroka symbolizes the beauty and stability of African culture by preserving traditions while making beneficial changes. He respects and maintains cultural practices, as seen in his leadership of Ilujinle and his strategic actions, such as blocking a railway project and wooing Sidi. His wisdom and accomplishments contrast with Lakunle's disregard for traditions, highlighting Baroka's role as a positive symbol of African culture.
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