AFRICAN DRAMA KOBINA SEKYE: The Blinkards How is African Life presented in the play?

Answer Details

Kobina Sekyi's The Blinkards is a satirical comedy set in colonial Cape Coast, and it presents African life in two contrasting forms: authentic African custom on one side, and a foolish, blind imitation of European ways on the other. The very title, referring to people who wear blinkers, points to those who cannot see the value of their own culture.

Genuine African life through custom and tradition. Sekyi presents true African life through its rich traditions. The play shows respect for elders, communal solidarity, the use of the mother tongue Fante, proverbs and courtesy, and above all the customary marriage rites. The traditional betrothal and marriage, conducted with the proper family negotiations and ceremony, are presented as dignified and meaningful, embodying the settled values of the community.

The distortion of African life by imitation. Against this, Sekyi satirises the anglicised Africans who despise their own heritage. Characters such as Mrs. Brofusem, who has returned from England, and the young Mr. Okadu ape European dress, speech, food and manners, scorning African clothing, language and customs as inferior. Their slavish mimicry is presented as ridiculous and self-destructive, a betrayal of their own identity.

The voice of balance. The educated lawyer Mr. Onyimdze represents true wisdom. Though Western-trained, he keeps his African values and marries in the traditional way, showing that education need not mean the loss of one's culture. Through him Sekyi presents the ideal of an African who embraces the good in his own life while resisting empty imitation.

Comic exposure. The clash of the two ways of life produces the play's comedy, but beneath the laughter lies a serious plea for cultural pride.

African life is therefore presented both as a source of dignity and worth, seen in its customs and communal values, and as something endangered by the blind imitators who despise it. Sekyi urges his people to value their own heritage rather than lose themselves in foreign fashions.