The Lion and the Jewel Lesson Plan

What does it mean that Sidi chooses to marry the man who raped her?

This question holds some complexities: some of the students may not be clear on the fact that Sidi was raped, since the word is never used explicitly. Explain the elements: Baroka manipulated Sidi; he spread a story so that Sidi would come to him under false pretenses; he used this to force her into a sexual situation that she wouldn't have chosen to be in. This constitutes rape. He's clearly "devalued" her in the terms of her society, which is why Lakunle can use the logic that he does about bride price. Some students will think that Sidi, given her upsetting circumstances, chose strategically: she could be...