Literature-In-English Paper 3 WASSCE (PC), 2021

Question 3

     

    WOLE SOYINKA: The Lion and the Jewel
    Comment on the influence of tradition in the play.


Observation

 

The requirement of this question is to explain the influence of tradition. Most candidates were able to meet the demands of this question.
A good response should contain:

  • The theme of conflict between tradition and modernity.
  • The symbols of tradition: the bride price – the dignity of the African woman; Baroka, the Bale; The dancers, their drums and their traditional roles.
  • Influence of tradition: triggers intrigue; The bride price causes conflict between Sidi and Lakunle; Baroka stops the railway construction to prevent intrusion of modern life in traditional culture.
  • Characters’ attitudes to tradition: Lakunle fiercely attacks it as retrogressive; Sidi welcomes it as a symbol of her virtue; Baroka wishes to preserve it; Sadiku conforms to it but secretly abhors its polygamous practice.
  • Significance of tradition:  provides a contrast to modernity; a source of conflict in the play; wins in the end.

Candidates’ performance was commendable.