Theory question 104
Set Text: The Marriage of AnansewaLiterature 2, Section A. Efua T. Sutherland: The Marriage of Anansewa
With reference to three incidents, show how Ananse deceives the chiefs into parting with their gifts.
Show the model answer
He has a photograph of Anansewa taken and sends it with flattering letters to four chiefs (Chief Sapa, Togbe Klu IV, Chief of the Mines, Chief-Who-Is-Chief).
He writes letters (typed by Anansewa) telling each chief that his daughter is reserved for him alone and asking for help with her needs.
He receives money and gifts from each (e.g. for her schooling, clothes) without telling them about the others.
He uses the outdooring ceremony to collect more gifts in the brass bowl.
He plays on each chief's pride and desire, lying to the messengers who visit.
He stages Anansewa's death to escape when they all come for her.
Answer must give three clear incidents and comment on Ananse's cunning and greed.
Choose three incidents and explain the trick in each.