Studies in African Languages and Cultures (Dec 1986)
The position of a Hausa woman in marriage
Abstract
Hausa drama reflects, to a considerable extent, the process of rapid change, brought about by the clash between traditional Hausa culture strongly inspired by Islam, and industrial civilization. The conflict between various values systems resulting from this clash has caused a disorganization of social life. The social and moral changes have given rise to new forms of behaviour as well as changed attitudes toward both traditional and foreign culture. These attitudes are represented in the work of playwrights, contributors to the development of modern Hausa culture. These playwrights are in search of what they consider to be appropriate means of re-establishing some social balance in the generally existing "chaos". They represent diverse attitudes toward the changes which are taking place in social and moral matters. Some of those concerned with family life and marriage advocate abandoning the traditional principles whereas others opt for preserving them. Their works are of a didactic, frequently moralizing, nature and therefore it is the plot that is of major importance in these plays. The plays are addressed to a wide audience and are acknowledged to reflect human types and society's problems in an accurate way. Works of drama meant to convey a particular message rather than create a sophisticated artistic form are of great interest to us.
