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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. The characters in the play are _________________.

2. Where is most of the play set?

3. Which of the following characters is NOT introduced in the first scene of the play?

4. Where do the women of the market claim that the "official business" is happening?

5. "Death and the King's Horseman" is a story of ____________________ rather than British colonization.

Short Essay Questions

1. What are Olunde's intentions for attending medical school?

2. How does Elesin kill himself?

3. How does Elesin become aware that it is time for his own death?

4. Explain the opening scene of Act 1, Scene 1. What do you find out about Elesin Oba?

5. What is it that moves Pilkings out to stop Elesin's death ritual?

6. Describe Elesin Oba's character, as presented by Soyinka.

7. What is the significance of the term, "my mother", in African culture?

8. Why does Amusa fail in arresting Elesin?

9. Why does Pilkings believe that Elesin is upset while he is locked in the cellar in Act 1, Scene 5?

10. Explain and identify the background of Soyinka's story.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Are Elesin's character traits problematic for the role he must play in the universe of the Yoruban people? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

How does self-sacrifice relate to this story? What can be inferred about the views on self-sacrifice between the two cultures?

Essay Topic 3

Which events of the play are set in a public place? Why does Soyinka do this?

(see the answer keys)

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