drama· Ghana
The Marriage of Anansewa: A Storytelling Drama
by Efua SutherlandAggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1975English
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Published in 1975, The Marriage of Anansewa: A Storytelling Drama established Efua Sutherland as one of the defining voices in drama. Efua Sutherland's play is a humorous and satirical take on traditional Ghanaian customs and modern influences. It tells the story of Ananse, a cunning character, who tries to arrange a profitable marriage for his daughter Anansewa. The play is celebrated for its vibrant use of language and its insightful commentary on societal norms and family dynamics. Themes of tradition, family, marriage run through the work.
Book Details
Country of Origin
🇬🇭 Ghana
This book is part of Ghana's rich literary tradition.
Explore books from Ghana →Editorial Assessment
The Marriage of Anansewa by Efua Sutherland weaves a rich tapestry of Ghanaian folklore and contemporary social issues, highlighting themes of gender roles, identity, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The play's structure embraces oral storytelling, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Akan people while addressing the complexities of marriage and familial obligations. Sutherland’s work is significant for its pioneering role in African theatre, offering a vibrant exploration of community dynamics and the power of narrative.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from multiple independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
Efua Sutherland is a Ghana author whose work in drama has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.
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