Marriage Is a Private Affair Quiz

Questions and Answers

Which kind of dilemma is illustrated by the statement, '[N]ever in the history of his people had a man married a woman who spoke a different tongue'?

Moral

Cultural (correct)

Technical

Generational

Which excerpt from the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair' reveals cultural differences that contribute to the dilemma?

'Okeke was trying hard not to think of his two grandsons.'

'The boy's mind is diseased, and only a good herbalist can bring him back....'

'[Nene] kept her home much better than most of them [the Ibo women].' (correct)

'Nnaemeka sat with his father under a cassia tree.'

Which excerpt from the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair' illustrates the tension between the characters best?

'Nnaemeka and his young wife were a most happy couple.'

'That night he hardly slept, from...fear he might die....'

'You have lived in Lagos all your life....'

'[I]t is impossible for me to marry Nweke's daughter.' (correct)

Which scenario is an example of a cultural dilemma?

A world traveler offends his Muslim host by crossing his legs and showing the bottom of his shoe. Signup and view all the answers

The story tells us that '[t]he prejudice against Nnaemeka's marriage was not confined to his little village.' How else is this idea revealed in the story?

The women at their village meeting treat Nene differently than they would one of their own. Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase defines the term 'gender roles' best?

The expected roles for males and females in a culture or society Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'cosmopolitan'?

Sophisticated; international in nature Signup and view all the answers

How is the title 'Marriage Is a Private Affair' ironic?

The marriage of Nnaemeka and Nene is not private at all because it is discussed by the entire village. Signup and view all the answers

How is the tension between the characters reconciled in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?

Okeke decides he will go to meet his grandchildren. Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'persevere'?

To endure; persist through adversity Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'deference'?

Courtesy; respectful submission Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a reason for Nnaemeka's objection to the girl his father has chosen?

He doesn't love her. Signup and view all the answers

What finally changes Okeke's mind about seeing his son and family?

Nene writes and begs him to see his two grandsons. Signup and view all the answers

What conflict develops for the engaged couple in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?

Nnaemeka's father objects to their marriage. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Themes and Concepts

Cultural Dilemma: Nnaemeka's marriage to a woman from a different tribe (Ibibio) poses a cultural conflict as it is traditionally unacceptable within Ibo society.
Generational Conflict: The story highlights the clash between traditional values held by the older generation, exemplified by Okeke, and the modern views of the younger generation, represented by Nnaemeka.

Character Dynamics

Nnaemeka: Represents the progressive attitudes and seeks personal happiness over adherence to tradition.
Okeke: Embodies traditional values and struggles with the shame brought upon by his son's choice, emphasizing the difficulty of reconciling paternal expectations with personal choice.

Irony and Tension

Title Ironic: "Marriage Is a Private Affair" suggests intimacy, yet the couple's decisions lead to widespread village gossip and disapproval, demonstrating the public nature of personal relationships in their culture.
Conflict Resolution: The story concludes with reconciliation, as Okeke decides to meet his grandchildren, showing personal growth and acceptance of change.

Important Quotes and Details

Okeke's perspective changes as he realizes Nnaemeka's happiness, illustrating the evolving nature of familial relationships.
Nnaemeka's reluctance to disobey his father while still pursuing love showcases the struggle between duty and desire.

Gender Roles: The story explores societal expectations of men and women, particularly through Nene's treatment in their village contrasted with traditional Ibo expectations.
Cosmopolitan vs. Traditional: The narrative contrasts Nnaemeka and Nene's modernity with Okeke's adherence to Ibo customs, showcasing the tension between tradition and progress.

Cultural Significance

The story delves into themes of identity and belonging, illustrating how cultural differences can affect personal choices and relationships.
Retains relevance in discussions on marriage customs, familial obligations, and cultural identity, making visible the struggles faced when personal desires conflict with societal norms.

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Description

Test your understanding of the key themes and character dynamics in Chinua Achebe's story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'. This quiz explores cultural dilemmas, generational conflicts, and the ironic nature of societal expectations surrounding marriage. Delve into the intricacies of personal choice versus tradition.