One major theme in the play is that of tradition, and the way in which the main character, Anowa, turns away from the cultural traditions of her people. She refuses to marry at the prescribed time, and when she does marry, she works alongside her husband. Kofi Ako appreciates and even respects her for the help she gives him, at least until the business is up and running, at which point, he wishes her to take on the more tradtional role of homemaker. As a result, he buys slaves for the business, and Anowa, completely against the idea of owning other people rebels.
Anowa