Discuss the Role of Sidi in “The Lion and the Jewel”

Answer

Discuss the Role of Sidi in “The Lion and the Jewel”

or Sketch the character of Sidi in “The Lion and the Jewel.”

The character of Sidi: “The Lion and the Jewel” (1962) is a play written by Nigerian playwright Wole Soyinka (1934-Present). Sidi’s character is central to the plot, and she serves as a symbol of the clash between tradition and modernity in a Nigerian village. Her character reflects the condition of women in a post-colonial African society.

Sidi is a beautiful and headstrong young woman who becomes the object of desire for both Lakunle, a schoolteacher representing modernity, and Baroka, the aging village chief who embodies traditional values. Her name, Sidi, means “the crown” or “the jewel,” emphasizing her significance in the play. Here are some critical aspects of Sidi’s character:

Beauty and Pride: Sidi is aware of her beauty, and her physical attractiveness plays a significant role in the dynamics of the play. She takes pride in her appearance, and her beauty becomes a power source in the village. Sidi says, 

I am greater than … the living god among men.

Sidi feels empowered by seeing her beauty for the first time in the magazine prints.

Conflict between Tradition and Modernity: Sidi is initially attracted to the modern ideas brought by Lakunle. She is intrigued by education, urban lifestyles, and Western values. However, her attraction to modernity is not absolute. Sidi’s character symbolizes the broader conflict between tradition and modernity explored in the play.

Sidi’s interactions with Lakunle and Baroka highlight the clash between traditional and modern values. For instance, her refusal to marry Lakunle until he pays the bride price reflects her respect for traditional customs. Sidi thinks marrying without the bride price would make her a laughing object. Sidi says, 

Will you make me

A laughing-stock?

Intellectual Curiosity: Despite her initial attraction to Lakunle’s ideas, Sidi is not a passive character. She questions and challenges the new concepts introduced by the schoolteacher.

Transformation: As the play progresses, Sidi transforms. She is not a static character and is influenced by the events and the people around her. Her decisions play a crucial role in the resolution of the conflict. Despite being seduced by Baroka, Sidi finally chooses Baroka over Lakunle. She ultimately makes choices that reflect her agency and independence. Sidi says,

Would I choose a watered-down,

A beardless version of unripened man?

Both men try to force Sidi into a position where they can overpower her, either physically or emotionally. In the end, she chooses Baroka simply because he’s more powerful.

To wrap up, Sidi is a complex and dynamic character in “The Lion and the Jewel.” Her beauty, intelligence, and internal conflicts make her a compelling figure. She embodies the tensions and transformations within the cultural and social fabric of the play’s setting.