WAEC Literature in English 2021 Theory — Question 13

Model answer

Points to develop: relation to theme; character identification; Lakunle's approach to Sidi (morning); Baroka's approach to Sidi (noon); Sidi snubs Lakunle for Baroka. The play addresses the conflict between tradition and modernity, in which bride price is central. Lakunle, a symbol of modernity, refuses to pay Sidi's traditional bride price, and as a consequence loses her to Baroka. Lakunle criticizes Sidi's traditions as ignorant/uncivilised and condemns bride price as primitive and barbaric, promising Sidi a 'civilized' life after marriage instead. Baroka, through Sadiku, praises Sidi's beauty and promises wealth, honour, and prestige, then employs cunning (feigning impotence) to seduce and win her, exposing Lakunle's failure to secure Sidi through mere words rather than fulfilling the traditional requirements.