Satiric Vision in Ola Rotimi’s 'Our Husband has gone Mad Again'
Abstract
The main objective of this study is the use of satire to expose societal flaws, political corruption, and moral decay. This study critically examines the use of satire in Nigerian literature, focusing on the works of Ola Rotimi, Femi Osofisan, and Wole Soyinka. Through an analysis of plays such as Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again, The Gods Are Not to Blame, Midnight Hotel, and A Play of Giants, the research explores how these playwrights employ techniques such as caricature, irony, parody, and reversal to critique political selfishness, corruption, gender inequality, and superstition in Nigerian society. The study aims to analyse the effectiveness of satire in addressing socio-political concerns, examine how playwrights use and exaggeration to critique leadership, governance, and societal norms, and highlight the enduring relevance of satire in shaping public discourse and inspiring societal change. By examining the interplay between satire and socio-political commentary, this research underscores the role of literature in challenging oppressive systems and provoking critical reflection, emphasizing that satire remains a relevant and impactful tool in Nigerian literature, serving both as a means of entertainment and a vehicle for social and political critique.
