What picture of African polygamous society do you find in The Lion and the Jewel?

Answer

What picture of African polygamous society do you find in The Lion and the Jewel? 

In Wole Soyinka’s (1934-present) “The Lion and The Jewel” (1962), the depiction of an African polygamous society is presented. The drama reveals societal norms, gender dynamics, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Here are key points that highlight this portrayal:

Polygamy as Tradition: The play highlights the traditional practice of polygamy within the Yoruba society. Baroka, the village chief, is already married to several wives. He seeks to marry the young and beautiful Sidi. This reflects the societal acceptance and norm of polygamy:

It is five full months since last 

I took a wife.

Gender Dynamics and Patriarchy: The play portrays patriarchal structures within polygamous societies. Baroka’s pursuit of Sidi. Sidi is a younger woman. This reflects the traditional male desire for dominance and control. Baroka remarks, 

She’ll be found … in a dark corner 

Sulking like a slighted cockroach.

Baroka compares his “Favorite” wife to a cockroach after she accidentally injures his armpit. This statement highlights how little men value women, even their wives.

Female Agency and Resistance: Sidi, the village belle, challenges the traditional views on polygamy. Despite societal pressures, she initially rejects Baroka’s proposal. She asserts her desires and independence: 

I am greater than … the living god among men.

Her opposition signifies a changing perspective among women regarding their role in polygamous marriages.

Clash of Modernity and Tradition: The play reveals the clash between modernity and traditional values concerning polygamy. Lakunle is a schoolteacher and advocate for Western values. He opposes polygamy and aims to modernize the village. He represents the clash between traditional practices and modern ideologies. Lakunle’s anger at Baroka’s marriage proposal to Sidi highlights his disgust with traditional marriage culture in Nigeria. He finds polygamy unsavory and “barbaric,” in contrast to his idealized monogamy. He insults Baroka, saying,

The greedy dog! Insatiate camel of a foolish, doting race. 

Soyinka’s portrayal of African polygamous society in “The Lion and The Jewel” reveals the real picture of barbaric African society. Polygamy is presented in this iconic drama to represent the clash between tradition and modernity.