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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which of the following characters is NOT introduced in the first scene of the play?
(a) Elesin.
(b) Olohun-iyo.
(c) Iyaloja.
(d) Amusa.

2. Which genre of literature does Soyinka's work fall under?
(a) Modernism.
(b) Victorian.
(c) Allegory.
(d) Realism.

3. What are Jane and Pilkings wearing at the beginning of Act 1, Scene 2?
(a) Wigs.
(b) Jewelry.
(c) Fancy clothes.
(d) Masks.

4. In the author's note, Soyinka states that Elesin Oba is the _____________ in the eyes of the Yoruban people.
(a) Salvation.
(b) Universe.
(c) Horseman.
(d) King.

5. What does Joseph hear in Act 1, Scene 2 that confuses him?
(a) Drumming.
(b) Strange instrumentation.
(c) Singing.
(d) Crying.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is supposed to make an important appearance later in the evening?

2. What is it that Elesin craves before his death?

3. Which character acts as the voice of reason throughout the play?

4. Who do the Pilkings speak to for more insight to Amusa's report in Act 1, Scene 2?

5. What drives the action in the Yoruban world?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the conflict with the bride Elesin chooses in the first scene of the play?

2. How are Pilkings and Elesin alike?

3. What are Elesin's last requests before his death?

4. What is the "real" theme of the play, as stated by Soyinka in the author's note?

5. What is the significance of the term, "my mother", in African culture?

6. Explain what happens when Elesin emerges from the bridal tent.

7. Why does Soyinka claim (in the author's note) that the play is not a clash between two cultures (Yoruban and British)?

8. Describe Elesin Oba's character, as presented by Soyinka.

9. What information is given about the Yoruba in the author's note?

10. Soyinka mentions Pilkings in his author's note. What is important to understand about Pilkings' character, according to Soyinka?

(see the answer keys)

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