One of the play's most important themes is the clash between tradition and modernity.
Lakunle prides himself on being a modern man, influenced by Western ideas to look down on what he regards as the superstitious barbarisms of traditional tribal culture. He blithely assumes that his relatively enlightened attitudes towards women will impress Sidi, but nothing could be further from the truth. Tradition still retains a powerful hold on tribal consciousness, even on those members of the tribe, such as women like Sidi, who tend not to do so well out of it.
The world outside the village may be changing, but inside the confines of the village things pretty much go on as they've always done. Here, wisdom and experience count for much more than abstract ideas of emancipation. That's why Lakunle is unable to make any headway in his quest for Sidi's hand in marriage. His attachment to modern Western values, be they ever so superficial, avail him nothing in a society still steeped in the old customs.
Sunday, February 17, 2019
Outline the themes in The Lion and the Jewel.
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