Podcast
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'?
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?
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?
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?
Which scenario is an example of a cultural dilemma?
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 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?
Which phrase defines the term 'gender roles' best?
Which phrase defines the term 'gender roles' best?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'cosmopolitan'?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'cosmopolitan'?
How is the title 'Marriage Is a Private Affair' ironic?
How is the title 'Marriage Is a Private Affair' ironic?
How is the tension between the characters reconciled in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?
How is the tension between the characters reconciled in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'persevere'?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'persevere'?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'deference'?
Which phrase is the best definition of the word 'deference'?
Which of the following is not a reason for Nnaemeka's objection to the girl his father has chosen?
Which of the following is not a reason for Nnaemeka's objection to the girl his father has chosen?
What finally changes Okeke's mind about seeing his son and family?
What finally changes Okeke's mind about seeing his son and family?
What conflict develops for the engaged couple in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?
What conflict develops for the engaged couple in the story 'Marriage Is a Private Affair'?
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.
Role of Gender and Social Dynamics
- 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.
