Friday, October 21, 2011

Describe Lakunle's initial reaction when he hears that Sidi has been seduced.

In Act Three of the play entitled "Night," Lakunle and Sadiku are arguing, when out of nowhere, Sidi runs into the village and falls on the ground. While Sidi is crying and rolling on the ground, Sadiku asks her what is the matter. Sidi is resistant and tells Sadiku to leave her alone. Lakunle attempts to comfort Sidi and is also denied the opportunity to show her affection. Lakunle immediately believes that Baroka has beaten Sidi and vows to tell the authorities. Sidi then explains that she is no longer a virgin and says that Baroka has lied to Sadiku. Lakunle initially acts upset and says, "Oh heavens, strike me dead!" (Soyinka 60). Shortly after his lamentation, Lakunle reveals his true feelings about Sidi losing her virginity. He says, "But you will agree, it is only fair that we forget the bride-price totally since you no longer can be called a maid" (Soyinka 60). Lakunle selfishly hopes to benefit from Sidi's misfortune by using the traditional custom to get him out of paying the bride-price. Lakunle's true intentions depict him as an insincere individual who turns towards tradition when he can benefit from it. At the end of the play, Sidi ends up choosing to marry Baroka instead of becoming Lakunle's wife.

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