Revision: Abosede Ademilua-Afolayan' Drama Text: Once Upon An Elephant

 

1. Discuss the role of Serubawon in Ajanaku’s rise to power.

Serubawon, a seer and medicine man, plays an instrumental role in Ajanaku’s rise to power, using his knowledge of rituals and his influence over people to manipulate the political landscape. His betrayal of King Akinjiobi marks the beginning of the tyrannical reign of Ajanaku.

Serubawon’s actions are motivated by his secret desire to place his illegitimate son, Ajanaku, on the throne. He begins by poisoning King Akinjiobi, making it appear as if the king died of natural causes, thus creating a power vacuum. This pivotal act sets the stage for Ajanaku to seize the throne. As the king dies, Serubawon ensures that Ajanaku is seen as the rightful heir, despite his illegitimacy, by using his influence to manipulate the royal succession process.

Serubawon does not stop at poisoning the king; he also uses his power to manipulate the Guild of Hunters and the elders of the kingdom. Through bribes and promises of loyalty, he secures their support for Ajanaku, ensuring that the kingdom falls under the control of the tyrant. For instance, Serubawon offers his influence and manipulates the elders during Ajanaku’s coronation to legitimize the coup and further his own interests.

Through these machinations, Serubawon is shown to be a key figure behind Ajanaku's rise to power, using deceit, poison, and manipulation to secure the throne for his son. However, Serubawon’s actions are driven by his self-interest and the desire to place his illegitimate son in a position of power. His role highlights the corrupt nature of leadership and the extent to which power can be seized through treachery and manipulation.

 

2. Highlight two examples of how the play addresses poor leadership and injustice.

1. Ajanaku’s exploitation of the people:
   Ajanaku’s rise to power ushers in a period of extreme oppression and exploitation. Ajanaku abuses his power by forcefully taking lands from the people, disregarding their rights, and making arbitrary demands. His actions highlight the theme of poor leadership, where a ruler uses his position not to serve the people but to enrich himself. Ajanaku’s abuse of power becomes evident in his treatment of the villagers. He forces them to pay excessive tributes, taking advantage of their hard work and resources. His selfishness and greed are evident when he demands that the people of Oguno, who are under threat from invaders, pay higher tributes instead of offering help or protection. This shows a ruler who is indifferent to the suffering of his people, further emphasizing the theme of poor leadership. This example underscores the detrimental effects of bad governance, where rulers use their authority to benefit themselves rather than serving the people.
2. Ajanaku’s failure to assist the people of Oguno:
   In Act 7, the people of Oguno seek Ajanaku’s help to defend their land from invaders. Instead of offering aid, Ajanaku demands higher tributes from them. This refusal to help those in need and the imposition of more burdens on the already struggling people demonstrates the lack of empathy and justice in his leadership. Ajanaku’s refusal to assist in times of crisis further exposes the failure of leadership, as a leader is supposed to protect the interests and well-being of the people. By demanding more from the people at their moment of need, Ajanaku reinforces the theme of injustice, showing how a tyrant exploits the weak and vulnerable rather than helping them in their time of need.

These two examples underline the play’s critique of leadership that is characterized by exploitation, greed, and indifference to justice.

 

3. How is the theme of "triumph of good over evil" depicted in the play?

The theme of "triumph of good over evil" is portrayed through the collective resistance and eventual downfall of Ajanaku, the tyrant, and the restoration of justice. The characters who oppose Ajanaku—most notably Iya Agba, Desola, Delani, and Odekunle—embody the forces of good, while Ajanaku represents the evil forces of oppression and tyranny. The efforts of the oppressed characters lead to the eventual downfall of Ajanaku, symbolizing the triumph of justice and righteousness.

One of the key moments in the play occurs when Iya Agba, despite her personal suffering, rises to lead the resistance against Ajanaku. She rallies the oppressed people, including Desola and Delani, and leads them in the fight for justice. Iya Agba’s wisdom and determination represent the resilience of good, even in the face of immense adversity. She refuses to be broken by Ajanaku’s tyranny, and her leadership culminates in the final confrontation that brings about Ajanaku’s demise.

Desola’s suffering also contributes to the triumph of good over evil. When Ajanaku rapes Desola, it is a catalyst for the characters to take action. Desola’s innocence and victimhood evoke sympathy and outrage among the other characters, galvanizing them to take a stand against the oppression. The confession of Serubawon, which occurs after Desola’s suffering, further signifies the unraveling of evil forces.

In the end, the efforts of these characters result in Ajanaku’s death, representing the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The play suggests that no matter how powerful or oppressive evil may seem, the forces of righteousness and justice will ultimately prevail. This theme is central to the play's message of hope and the importance of collective action against tyranny.

 

4. Explain the significance of foreshadowing in the play with one example.

Foreshadowing is a critical dramatic technique used in Once Upon an Elephant to hint at future events and build suspense. One key example of foreshadowing occurs when Ogundele, a secondary character, makes a cryptic remark about Serubawon’s "twisted values" (Act 7). This statement alludes to the revelation later in the play that Serubawon is not only a betrayer but also the biological father of Ajanaku.

The significance of this foreshadowing is that it prepares the audience for the eventual uncovering of Ajanaku’s illegitimacy and the truth about Serubawon’s role in the political conspiracy. By foreshadowing the betrayal and the connection between Serubawon and Ajanaku, the playwright increases the dramatic tension, making the audience anticipate the moment when the truth is revealed. Foreshadowing also enhances the dramatic irony, as the audience, aware of the eventual revelation, watches the characters slowly uncover the truth.

This foreshadowing is not only a tool for suspense but also a reflection of the play's thematic exploration of deception, manipulation, and the eventual revelation of truth. It emphasizes that the characters’ actions and words often carry hidden meanings that will later come to light.

 

5. Discuss the use of dramatic irony in relation to Ajanaku’s claim about Omoyeni’s pregnancy.

Dramatic irony is a technique in which the audience knows something that the characters do not, creating tension and adding depth to the narrative. In Once Upon an Elephant, dramatic irony is used in Ajanaku’s claim about Omoyeni’s pregnancy. Ajanaku publicly declares that he is the father of Omoyeni’s child, but the audience is aware that the real father is Delani, a loyal servant who is in love with Omoyeni.

This use of dramatic irony creates tension because the audience knows that Ajanaku’s claim is false, and they are waiting for the moment when the truth will be revealed. Ajanaku’s delusion is evident in his boasting and prideful announcement, while the audience understands that his claim is based on lies and manipulation. The irony highlights Ajanaku’s character flaws—his arrogance, delusion, and lack of self-awareness.

The dramatic irony also serves to critique Ajanaku’s leadership. His inability to recognize the truth and his false claims reflect his distorted perception of reality, which contrasts with the moral clarity of characters like Iya Agba, Desola, and Delani. This tension between truth and falsehood, compounded by the dramatic irony, adds to the play’s critique of dictatorship and the corrupting influence of power.

 

SECTION C: ESSAY QUESTIONS

1. Examine the role of women in Once Upon an Elephant, focusing on Iya Agba and Desola.

In Once Upon an Elephant, women are portrayed as central figures in the fight against tyranny and oppression. Two key female characters, Iya Agba and Desola, embody the strength, wisdom, and resilience necessary to challenge the corrupt regime of Ajanaku.

Iya Agba is the embodiment of wisdom and moral authority. Despite being exiled and disgraced by the actions of Serubawon and Adebisi, she remains a beacon of strength, rallying others to resist Ajanaku’s rule. Iya Agba’s deep knowledge of rituals and her strategic thinking are vital in the resistance effort. She inspires other characters, particularly Desola, to stand up for their rights and confront Ajanaku. Her leadership is pivotal in orchestrating the eventual defeat of Ajanaku, making her the key figure in the restoration of justice.

Desola, on the other hand, represents innocence and victimhood. Her suffering, particularly the rape by Ajanaku, becomes the emotional catalyst that drives the other characters to action. Desola’s trauma and the injustice she faces at the hands of Ajanaku spur the confession of Serubawon and the eventual downfall of Ajanaku. While Desola’s role is one of victimhood, her suffering galvanizes the other characters into action, making her indirectly responsible for the triumph of good over evil.

Together, Iya Agba and Desola highlight the power of women in shaping the course of events. They demonstrate that women are not passive victims but active participants in the struggle for justice, even when society marginalizes or oppresses them. Their roles challenge traditional gender roles and emphasize the importance of women in political and social resistance.

2. Analyze how the theme of betrayal shapes the events of the play.

Betrayal is a dominant theme in Once Upon an Elephant, and it is central to the unfolding drama. Serubawon’s betrayal of King Akinjiobi sets the tone for the entire play. His affair with Adebisi and the poisoning of the king are acts of treachery that set Ajanaku on his path to power. This betrayal establishes a corrupt leadership structure where power is gained through deceit and manipulation rather than merit or righteousness.

The theme of betrayal is further explored through Ajanaku’s treatment of the people. His betrayal of the trust of his subjects, using them for personal gain and ruling as a dictator, shows how betrayal permeates all levels of leadership. The people, who initially supported Ajanaku, eventually turn against him, highlighting the destructive consequences of betrayal.

Ultimately, the cycle of betrayal in the play leads to the downfall of both Serubawon and Ajanaku. Their treachery is uncovered, and they face the consequences of their actions. The play suggests that betrayal is a destructive force that undermines trust and destroys relationships, whether personal or political. This theme reinforces the importance of integrity and loyalty in leadership and governance.

 

These analyses provide a comprehensive exploration of key themes, character motivations, and dramatic techniques in Once Upon an Elephant, allowing for a deeper understanding of the play’s message on leadership, justice, and the triumph of good over evil.

1. Examine the theme of dictatorship as portrayed in Once Upon an Elephant.

The theme of dictatorship is central to Once Upon an Elephant. Through the character of Ajanaku, the playwright exposes the evils of oppressive leadership and its adverse effects on society. Ajanaku seizes power through manipulation and illegitimate means, aided by Serubawon, who betrays the trust of the former king, Akinjiobi. Ajanaku’s reign is characterized by absolute tyranny, disregard for advice, and cruelty.

For instance, Ajanaku refuses to address the plight of the people of Oguno when they come to seek his help against an external invasion. Instead of acting as a protector, he demands additional tributes from them, showing his greed and selfishness (Act 5). His leadership style is further portrayed when he forcefully takes lands from his people and punishes anyone who resists. This culminates in an instance where a man from Oguno stabs himself in despair after being stripped naked on Ajanaku’s orders (Act 8).

Ajanaku’s dictatorship is also shown in his personal life, such as his forcing Omoyeni into marriage and raping his half-sister, Desola, to complete the IJEDODO ritual (Act 12). These acts emphasize his absolute disregard for human rights and his insatiable thirst for power. However, his downfall illustrates the transient nature of dictatorship and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The collective resistance led by Iya Agba symbolizes the power of the people to reclaim their rights.

 

2. Analyze the role of Iya Agba in restoring justice and order in the play.

Iya Agba is the moral compass and catalyst for justice in Once Upon an Elephant. Despite being falsely accused and disgraced by Serubawon and Adebisi, she remains resilient and determined to restore order and expose the truth. Her character embodies wisdom, courage, and a commitment to righteousness, making her a symbol of resistance against oppression.

After being falsely accused of infidelity and driven out of the palace, Iya Agba lives in isolation but continues to observe the unfolding injustices. She plays a pivotal role in rallying the victims of Ajanaku’s tyranny, including Omoyeni, Odekunle, and Desola. Iya Agba’s deep knowledge of rituals and her ability to mobilize the oppressed enable the ultimate defeat of Ajanaku.

Her strategic use of innuendos and cryptic language often foreshadows key revelations in the play. For example, she hints at Ajanaku’s illegitimacy through her statement, “The lizard may resemble a crocodile, but they are certainly different” (Act 10). This suggests that Ajanaku is not the biological son of Akinjiobi and therefore has no rightful claim to the throne.

Iya Agba's actions culminate in Ajanaku's downfall when she leads a ritual to reclaim the people's rights and lives, resulting in his death on the day he was to complete the IJEDODO ritual (Act 14). Her character underscores the importance of collective resistance and the power of traditional knowledge in overcoming tyranny.

 

3. Discuss the significance of Yoruba culture and traditions in the play.

The play Once Upon an Elephant is deeply rooted in Yoruba culture and traditions, which serve as both a backdrop and a driving force for the narrative. The setting, language, and rituals depicted in the play highlight the richness of Yoruba heritage and its relevance to the themes of leadership, justice, and resistance.

The setting of the play is an unnamed traditional Yoruba village, where cultural norms and practices shape the characters' lives. For example, the use of the IJEDODO ritual symbolizes the intersection of power and spirituality in Yoruba tradition. Ajanaku’s quest to complete the ritual and achieve immortality reflects his obsession with power but also underscores the importance of cultural rites in determining legitimacy (Act 13).

Language is another significant cultural element. The play incorporates Yoruba expressions and names, such as “Ajanaku,” which means elephant but metaphorically represents a tyrant or oppressor. Similarly, the term “Baale,” meaning husband or lord, reflects the patriarchal structure of the society. These linguistic elements enhance the authenticity of the play and its connection to Yoruba heritage.

The role of naming in Yoruba culture is also explored. Names are not merely identifiers but carry deep meanings and reflect societal values. The revelation that Ajanaku is not the biological son of Akinjiobi challenges the traditional belief in lineage and succession, emphasizing the need for truth and accountability in leadership.

The use of traditional motifs like proverbs, innuendos, and dramatic irony further reinforces the play’s cultural essence. For instance, the proverb “The lizard may resemble a crocodile, but they are certainly different” encapsulates the tension between appearance and reality in the context of Ajanaku’s illegitimacy (Act 10).

Through its rich portrayal of Yoruba culture, the play critiques contemporary political issues while advocating for a return to traditional values of justice, communal participation, and ethical leadership.

 

4. Examine the use of dramatic techniques in conveying the themes of the play.

Bosede Ademilua-Afolayan employs a variety of dramatic techniques to enhance the thematic depth and engagement of Once Upon an Elephant. These techniques include dramatic irony, foreshadowing, innuendo, and symbolism.

Dramatic Irony is a prominent technique in the play. For example, Ajanaku boasts about being responsible for Omoyeni’s pregnancy, but the audience knows that the child belongs to Delani (Act 9). This technique creates tension and highlights Ajanaku’s delusion and lack of awareness.

Foreshadowing is used to build suspense and prepare the audience for key revelations. For instance, when Ogundele remarks about Serubawon’s sudden interest in “twisting values,” it foreshadows the later revelation that Ajanaku is Serubawon’s son (Act 7). This technique keeps the audience engaged and provides deeper insight into the characters’ motivations.

Innuendo is skillfully employed by Iya Agba to criticize Ajanaku without directly confronting him. Her statement about the lizard and the crocodile serves as an indirect accusation of Ajanaku’s illegitimacy (Act 10). This technique reflects the cultural nuance of Yoruba communication and the cautious nature of resistance under oppressive regimes.

Symbolism is another significant technique. The elephant symbolizes tyranny and oppression, as reflected in Ajanaku’s character. His eventual death signifies the triumph of justice and the restoration of balance in the community. The use of traditional rituals, such as the IJEDODO ceremony, symbolizes the intersection of spirituality and governance in Yoruba culture.

Through these techniques, the playwright effectively conveys the themes of dictatorship, betrayal, resistance, and justice, while maintaining the cultural authenticity and dramatic appeal of the play.