THE CORRUPT CHARACTER IN ESIABA IROBI’S NWOKEDI AND FRANK OGODO’S HARVEST OF CORRUPTION

ABSTRACT

This essay delves into the multifaceted theme of corruption as portrayed through the lens of character in two prominent African plays, Esiaba Irobi's "Nwokedi" and Frank Ogodo's "Harvest of Corruption." The central focus of this comparative analysis is to dissect the corrupt character, examining how it is conceived, developed, and presented in these two dramatic works within the African literary canon. The essay commences with an exploration of the socio-political and cultural contexts in which these plays were written, providing a backdrop for understanding the pervasive issue of corruption in African society. It then proceeds to meticulously dissect the central characters who personify corruption in their respective narratives. In "Nwokedi," the character Nwokedi symbolizes the moral decay and greed that infiltrate society, while in "Harvest of Corruption," Chief Haladu Ade-Amaka epitomizes the corrupt political elite. By employing literary analysis techniques, including character development, dialogue, and symbolism, this essay reveals how these playwrights employ their characters to expose the intricate web of corruption and its consequences. Moreover, it evaluates the effectiveness of their narrative strategies in conveying powerful messages about the destructive nature of corruption on individuals and society at large. As this comparative study unfolds, it becomes evident that while Irobi and Ogodo use distinct narrative approaches, they share a common objective: to shed light on the corrosive effects of corruption in African society. The essay concludes by reflecting on the enduring relevance of these plays in addressing the persisting issue of corruption in contemporary Africa and their contributions to the broader discourse on ethics, accountability, and societal transformation.