Theory question 203
Other Set Texts: African ProseLiterature 3, Section A. Chinua Achebe: Anthills of the Savannah
Discuss the significance of His Excellency's cabinet meeting
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Model answer
The novel opens with a cabinet meeting at which His Excellency humiliates his commissioners.
He rages over the Abazon delegation and his failure to win the referendum for life presidency.
Commissioners like the Attorney General and Professor Okong flatter him; most are afraid.
Chris Oriko, the narrator, stays quiet and ironic.
Significance: introduces the main characters and the tension between Sam and his friends.
Shows the growth of dictatorship, sycophancy and fear in the government.
Prepares the conflict that leads to Ikem's dismissal and the novel's tragedy.
Explanation
Describe the meeting and show its significance.