The Lion and the Jewel : Literary devices
The Lion and the Jewel is a notable literary work by Wole Soyinka. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Lion and the Jewel.
Literary devices
Figure of Speech
Symbol: A symbol is something that represents a larger idea or concept. In the play, “The Lion and the Jewel” The lion symbolizes Baroka’s strength, cunning, and dominance as the traditional leader. The jewel symbolizes Sidi’s beauty, youth, and value in the village. Together, the title symbolizes the struggle between tradition (Baroka) and modernization (Sidi).
Image: Imagery is the use of vivid descriptions to create mental pictures. The images of Sidi in the magazine represent her beauty and rising status in the village. The glossy, large photos contrast with Baroka’s small, insignificant image. This emphasizes her pride and vanity.
Simile: A simile compares two things using “like” or “as.” Lakunle’s insult to Sidi: “You are as stubborn as an illiterate goat.” Here, Lakunle compares Sidi’s stubbornness to a goat to highlight her refusal to accept his modern ideas.
Metaphor: A metaphor directly compares two things without using “like” or “as.” Baroka as “the Lion” – Baroka is metaphorically called a lion. This beast symbolizes his strength, cunning, and dominance as the village chief. Sidi as “the Jewel” – Sidi is metaphorically described as a jewel, representing her beauty, innocence, and value in the community.
Conceit: A conceit is an extended metaphor or a complex comparison that goes beyond a single line. Baroka’s masculinity and power as a “machine” – Baroka’s description of his virility and his ability to outlast his wives is compared to a machine. His “stamp-making machine” also serves as a symbol of his power to create and control the village’s legacy.