Theory question 103
Set Text: The Lion and the JewelLiterature 2, Section A. Wole Soyinka: The Lion and the Jewel
Consider the dramatic significance of the first meeting between Lakunle and Baroka
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Model answer
Baroka arrives in the middle of the mime of the Lost Traveller, and the villagers greet him with respect.
He teases Lakunle, the schoolteacher, who is taking part in the dance and who shows hostility and envy towards him.
It introduces the central conflict between tradition (Baroka) and modernity (Lakunle).
It reveals Baroka's authority, wit and confidence and Lakunle's shallowness and hypocrisy.
Baroka notices Sidi's photographs: the start of his plan to win her, which drives the plot.
It creates humour and suspense.
Explanation
Explain what the scene reveals about character, theme and plot.