Into Africa and Wole Soyinka: Crash Course Theater #49

The video explores the rich and diverse traditions of African theater, focusing on the influential Nigerian playwright Wole Soyinka. It discusses the challenges faced in documenting African theater history due to colonialism and the lack of written records. The video highlights various traditional performance practices across Africa, such as the Egungun masquerade in Nigeria and Anansesem storytelling in Ghana. It also examines the development of African theater post-independence and the contributions of key figures like Wole Soyinka, who blended Western and African theatrical elements. The video concludes with a reflection on the flourishing of African theater despite historical challenges.

What percentage of the world's land mass does Africa constitute?

• 10%

• 20%

• 30%

• 40%

Why is African theater history not widely discussed in America?

• Lack of interest in theater

• Focus on European playwrights

• Too many African languages

• Colonial suppression of culture

What is the Egungun festival in Nigeria associated with?

• Harvest season

• Planting season

• New Year celebrations

• Wedding ceremonies

Which Ghanaian playwright founded the Ghana Drama Studio?

• Ngugi wa Thiong'o

• Wole Soyinka

• Efua Sutherland

• Athol Fugard

What was the Kamiriithu community center known for?

• Being a colonial government building

• Staging plays with indigenous elements

• Hosting international theater festivals

• Promoting Western theater

Which South African playwright is known for collaborating with Black artists?

• Wole Soyinka

• Athol Fugard

• Ngugi wa Thiong'o

• Efua Sutherland

What is a key theme in Wole Soyinka's plays?

• Romantic comedies

• Conflict between tradition and modernity

• Science fiction

• Historical epics

What does Soyinka's play 'Death and the King's Horseman' primarily explore?

• A love story

• A political revolution

• A historical event

• A clash of cultures

In 'Death and the King's Horseman', what is Elesin Oba's role?

• A market trader

• A colonial officer

• The king's advisor

• The king's horseman

What does the play 'Death and the King's Horseman' suggest about British colonialism?

• It was beneficial

• It was neutral

• It imposed its own vision

• It was supportive of local traditions