Why Fire and Rain Are Enemies: an African Folktale

In a folk tale, a chief's beautiful daughter, Bidemi, is sought after by many suitors, including the elements Fire and Rain. Rain proposes with promises of comfort, while Fire offers protection but with harsh conditions. Bidemi cleverly sets a race between Fire and Rain to decide her suitor. Rain wins by using his natural abilities, leading to his marriage with Bidemi and establishing the enmity between Fire and Rain.

What was the chief's initial reaction to the village suitors for his daughter?

• He immediately chose one of them.

• He was indifferent to their proposals.

• He thought they were not good enough.

• He welcomed them with open arms.

Why did Rain want to marry Bidemi?

• He wanted to defeat Fire.

• He was ordered by the chief.

• He was captivated by her beauty.

• He wanted to rule the village.

What did Fire promise the chief regarding Bidemi's safety?

• He would ensure she had plenty of water.

• He would provide her with endless spa days.

• He would keep her cool.

• He would protect her by burning anyone who came near.

How did Bidemi plan to resolve the issue of having two suitors?

• By marrying both of them.

• By leaving the village.

• By asking her father to decide.

• By holding a race between them.

What was the reaction of the townspeople to the race?

• They were confused and left.

• They were angry and protested.

• They were excited and gathered to watch.

• They were uninterested.

What was Rain's strategy during the race?

• He tried to sabotage Fire.

• He asked for help from the wind.

• He waited patiently and then used his powers.

• He ran as fast as he could from the start.

What happened when Rain finally acted during the race?

• He disappeared and reappeared at the finish line.

• He tripped Fire, causing him to fall.

• He created a flood that washed away the track.

• He caused a storm that extinguished Fire.

What was the outcome of the race?

• Neither Fire nor Rain finished the race.

• The race was declared a tie.

• Rain won and married Bidemi.

• Fire won and married Bidemi.

What was the chief's reaction after the race?

• He decided to hold another race.

• He was indifferent to the outcome.

• He was angry and refused to accept the result.

• He was relieved and accepted Rain as his son-in-law.

What lasting effect did the race have on Fire and Rain?

• They became best friends.

• They left the village forever.

• They decided to share Bidemi.

• They remained enemies.