Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)

Publication Date

Spring 3-26-2024

College

Music and Performing Arts, College of

Department

Theatre and Dance, Department of

BURS Faculty Advisor

James Al-Shamma

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Abstract

The life and work of playwright, novelist, and activist Wole Soyinka (born in 1934) serves as a perfect example of the marriage of the arts and advocacy, through the telling of stories of the Nigerian people. Soyinka grew up surrounded by Christianity, Islam, and the tribal religion of the Yoruba people. Additionally, Soyinka’s parents exposed him to Nigerian and other West African literature, Western literature, and ancient Greek drama. Soyinka’s intellect was formed at the intersection of these various theologies and literary traditions, and further developed through studies at the University of Ibadan and the University of Leeds, from where he graduated in the mid-1950s. Nigeria gained independence from British rule in the 1960s, an event of major import for the politically engaged artist. In the following years, Soyinka wrote plays commenting on the political situation in Nigeria through the lens of Yoruba folklore, taking into consideration the daily lives of the Nigerian people. For his efforts, Soyinka gained international recognition and spent time in prison. He serves as inspiration for theatre artists to tell stories untold, and to advocate for marginalized communities.

Download

Share

COinS