Greek and Yoruba Beliefs in Sophocles’ Antigone and Femi Osofisan’s Adaptation, Tegonni
By Olakunbi Olasope
Abstract: The highly spirited heroine of the Antigone ensured that her deceased brother Polynices was given a decent burial by sprinkling dust and pouring three cups of libation on his corpse. By doing this, she triumphed over the written laws of King Creon who brought damnation and great misfortune upon himself through his obstinacy. In the African adaptation of the above named drama, Tegonni, similar parallels could be found. The fiery heroine Tegonni defied the Governor’s command that the corpse of Oyekunle should not be buried. Tegonni sprinkled dust on his corpse which she met while her marriage procession was going through the city. What should have been the happiest day of her life turned into a tragic nightmare. Greek and Yoruba cultures have so many parallels not only in death and burial rites but also in many other aspects of society.
Article in Papers in Honour of Tekena N. Tamuno, Professor Emeritus, at 70, edited by Egbe Ifie, pg. 408-420
Published in 2002 by Opotoru Books