Theory question 202
Other Set Texts: African ProseLiterature 3, Section A. Chinua Achebe: Anthills of the Savannah
Comment on the character and role of Beatrice in the novel.
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Beatrice Okoh is a senior civil servant in the Ministry of Finance, educated in England; Chris's lover and Ikem's friend.
She is intelligent, independent, outspoken and confident.
She is compassionate and loyal: she supports Elewa after Ikem's death and cares for others.
She has a spiritual, almost prophetic side, linked with the goddess Idemili.
Role: she narrates parts of the story and links the main characters.
At the dinner at the presidential lodge she warns Sam and sees through the American journalist.
She draws the survivors together and leads the naming ceremony of Elewa's baby, giving the novel a hopeful ending.
She represents the new, strong African woman.
Cover both character and role.