 | |
| Author | Wole Soyinka |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Dramatist's Play Service |
Publication date | January 1, 1998 |
| ISBN | 978-0-822-21090-0 |
The Trials of Brother Jero is a satirical play by Nigerian playwright, poet, and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka.[1][2] It explores themes of religious hypocrisy and social exploitation. The play, which was one of Soyinka's earliest works, premiered in 1960 in Ibadan,[3] Nigeria, when Soyinka was 26 years old. Set against the backdrop of Lagos, it follows the exploits of Brother Jeroboam (Jero), an unscrupulous self proclaimed prophet who manipulates his followers for personal gain.[4]
The play opens with Jero addressing the audience, revealing his opportunistic nature and his mastery of exploiting the desires and weaknesses of those around him. Despite his outward piety, Jero struggles with internal conflicts, including his own lust and ambition, while navigating challenges such as competition from other preachers and evading creditors. Central to the story are his interactions with Chume, his devoted but disillusioned follower, and Amope, Chume's strong willed wife, who seeks to settle a debt with Jero.
Through a sequence of comedic and ironic events, the play critiques the exploitation of religion for social and economic gain. It also highlights the gullibility of individuals who, driven by their aspirations and insecurities, fall prey to such exploitation. The Trials of Brother Jero, structured as a one act play with five scenes, masterfully blends humor with social commentary, cementing Soyinka's reputation as a keen observer of human behavior and societal dynamics.[5][6]
- ^ "Wole Soyinka | Biography, Plays, Books, & Facts | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 2024-09-29. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
- ^ "The Nobel Prize in Literature 1986". NobelPrize.org. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
- ^ "The Nobel Prize in Literature 1986". NobelPrize.org. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
- ^ "The Trials of Brother Jero | play by Soyinka | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
- ^ Soyinka, Wole (1969). The Trials of Brother Jero: And The Strong Breed; Two Plays. Dramatists Play Service Inc. ISBN 978-0-8222-1090-0.
- ^ "The Trials of Brother Jero | Encyclopedia.com". www.encyclopedia.com. Retrieved 2024-11-22.