Traditionalism as a source of Change: Ola Rotimi’s Kurunmi as an epitome
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Date
2016
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Belogradchik Journal for Local History, Cultural Heritage and Folk Studies Volume
Abstract
Ola Rotimi’s Kurunmi has generally been classified as a
tragedy, historical play, postcolonial text, satire etc. Such general classifications have limited the analyses of the play to thematic thoughts such as cultural clash, postcolonial disillusionment, and its understanding as an emblem of
the Greek dramatic tradition. For this reason, this paper examines the issue of
traditionalism in the play centering on the faithfulness of the writer in utilizing
actual historical materials and personalities of the 19th century Yoruba war
between Ijaye and Ibadan armies (in Nigeria) and its implication on the general sensibility of the society. The paper examines the role of the major character of the play, Kurunmi, as a traditionalist and how his display of epic heroism helps produce resounding themes of socio-cultural relevance. It argues
that a conscious reading of the personalities, attributes, and egos of Kurunmi
as a traditionalist would make the reader have the privilege of having a real
sense of the complex nature of Kurunmi’s character rather than seeing him as
a prototype of a Greek tragic hero.
Description
Keywords
Kurunmi, Traditionalism, Traditionalist, Epic heroism
Citation
Ayodabo, J. (2016). Traditionalism as a source of Change: Ola Rotimi’s Kurunmi as an epitome. The Belogradchik Journal for Local History, Cultural Heritage and Folk Studies Volume, 7.