Question

How does the play resolves conflicts or challenges in a way that is tragic or sorrowful.(Cetshwayo play and The Lion and the Jewel)provide examples and use in text references

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

In "Cetshwayo," the play resolves conflicts and challenges in a tragic and sorrowful way through the downfall of the titular character, King Cetshwayo. The play follows Cetshwayo's struggles as he tries to protect his kingdom from British colonialists, only to be defeated in battle and taken as a prisoner. This ultimately leads to his exile and the collapse of his reign, which is a tragic end to his efforts to protect his people and maintain their independence.

One example of this tragic resolution is seen in the final scene of the play, where Cetshwayo reflects on his loss and the futility of his resistance. He laments, "I have failed my people. My kingdom is lost, my people scattered. What hope is left for us now?" This moment captures the sorrowful and tragic nature of Cetshwayo's fate, as he is left defeated and broken, unable to protect his kingdom or his people.

Similarly, in "The Lion and the Jewel," the play resolves conflicts and challenges in a tragic and sorrowful way through the character of Sidi, who ultimately becomes a victim of the patriarchal society in which she lives. Sidi's desire for modernization and independence clashes with the traditional values of her village, leading to her eventual subjugation and betrayal.

A significant example of this tragic resolution is seen in the final act of the play, where Sidi is forced into a marriage with the Bale, a wealthy and powerful man who seeks to control her. Despite her initial resistance, Sidi ultimately succumbs to the pressures of society and agrees to the marriage, sealing her fate as a powerless and oppressed woman. This tragic ending illustrates the destructive impact of patriarchal norms and societal expectations on an individual's autonomy and agency.

In both plays, the resolution of conflicts and challenges in a tragic or sorrowful manner serves to highlight the themes of powerlessness, loss, and betrayal, ultimately evoking sympathy and empathy from the audience towards the characters who suffer such tragic fates.