Literature as a Mirror-Image of Socio-Political Realities: An Examination of Wole Soyinka’s A Play of Giants

Abstract

In view of the gradation of sameness between literature and humanities, one is swayed that literature is not a mere social construct which is ingrained in mere notions, imaginations, and imaginary conditions. Rather, it is seen as a social establishment, a kind of ritual, which has been in existence since time immemorial and has become an integral part of many societies. Therefore, this paper views literature as a replication of societal social realities. The paper examines and denounces the portrayal in a selected African play, of the hostile and punitive political and social realities that threaten our societies. Based on sociological literary theory, the article argues that
literature is an appropriate instrument for national reconciliation and unity among the various peoples of the society. The paper will explore the portrayal of the themes of national political crisis, national reconciliation and national unity in a selected African play. The article willndemonstrate the depiction of these themes and relate them to the happenings in our society presently.