The Importance of Ritual

As the narrative begins, the contemplations of its protagonist (Ezeulu) introduce thematically central questions about the role of ritual – in his life, in his function as high priest, and in the life of his people. In doing so, the narrative also raises larger questions about the role of ritual in general, examining these questions in several ways throughout the book.

First, narration includes frequent and detailed descriptions of ritual behavior in which Ezeulu participates. These include complex rituals of greeting that begin conversation with visitors or guests, and more community-oriented rituals that regularly and traditionally mark certain times of the year, and certain life passages (i.e. death). There are also rituals associated with family, and status within the family – for example, which son has precedence over which son, which wife has precedence over which wife. These sorts of rituals are less formal...