The Lion and the Jewel is a light comedy by Nigerian playwright Wole Soyinka. First performed in 1959, it is considered one of the most important works in Soyinka’s oeuvre.

The play depicts the conflict between traditional values and modernity, as embodied by the two main characters: Lakunle, a young man who embraces Western culture, and Sidi, a woman who represents the traditional values of her community. The play was written during a time of great change in Nigeria, as the country was transitioning from colonialism to independence. It is considered a classic work of Nigerian literature and has been translated into many languages, and staged all across the world, including at the Royal Court Theatre in 1966.  It also serves as prescribed literature text for the West African School Certificate Examination.

This play illustrates the challenges faced in traditional African settings to embrace modernization.  The topics addressed in this play: polygamy, seduction and the “battle of the sexes”, etc. are brought out in this short play, thanks to the literary genius of Wole Soyinka.

Main characters

Baroka– The Balè or chieftain of Ilujinle, a Yoruba village in the realm of the Ibadan clan’s kingdom. A crafty individual, he is the Lion referred to in the title. At 62 years of age, he has already sired 63 children thanks to polygamy. And still wants to woo Sidi, the jewel;

Lakunle– The progressive and absurdly arrogant Westernised teacher. He is in his twenties. He appears to only be semi-literate;

Sidi– A beautiful but somewhat egotisticalvillage girl who is wooed by both Baroka and Lakunle. She is also the village belle. She is the titular Jewel;

Sadiku– The chief’s sly senior wife, head-wife of his harem;

Ailatu– Baroka’s favourite, who loses her place in his affections due to her jealousy of Sidi.

Supporting characters:  village girls, A wrestler, A surveyor, schoolboys, attendants of the Bale, musicians, dancers, singers and villagers