Week 12: Discussion Question #1 for Aidoo's Changes (Ch. 8-12, pp. 68-100)

Week 12: Discussion Question  for Aidoo's Changes (Ch. 8-12, pp. 68-100)

Please provide your in-depth interpretation and analysis on the questions (at least 100 words per Discussion question #1, #2, and #3). Please try to include textual evidence (direct quotes along with the Act and Scene #) in your answer.

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Discussion Question #1 for Aidoo's Changes (1991, Ch. 8-12, pp. 68-100)

How did Oko's mother and sisters react to Esi's decision to leave Oko? Why did Oko's mother bring a "breathing parcel" (71) to Oko, and what do you make of her action here? When Ali learns that Esi divorced Oko, he first thinks Esi is "crazy" (74). Why? What does his thought here reflect his view of women's position and marriage in Ghanaian society? What does Ali like about Esi and vice versa? How would you describe their relationships? 

Discussion Question #2 for Aidoo's Changes (1991, Ch. 8-12, pp. 68-100)

Why does Opokuya object to Esi's decision to become Ali's second wife? Although Esi's mother does not like the idea of Esi becoming Ali's second wife, she eventually approves of it. Why? What does Esi's grandmother try to convey by telling Esi, "Ah, but that is why we do the serious business of living with our heads, and never our hearts" (79)? What do you make of Esi's decision to become Ali's second wife and be in a polygamous marriage? Does Esi have no other choices?

Discussion Question #3 for Aidoo's Changes (1991, Ch. 8-12, pp. 68-100)

What is Ali's justification of polygamy as a cultural practice? Does he follow a proper procedure of polygamy? What do you make of Ali's reasoning for giving a ring to Esi? When Ali informs Fusena about his decision to take Esi as his second wife, Fusena asks him whether she has a university degree. Why? Why does Fusena remove her veil at that time, and what does her action symbolize?