The Tradition of Forceful Marriage as an Abuse of the Female Right: a Case Study of Zulu Sofola’s Wedlock of the Gods

This study set out to explore the portrayal of marital conflict in Zulu Sofola's Wedlock of the Gods, focusing on the factors contributing to such conflicts and the mechanisms suggested for resolving them. The research was guided by three primary objectives: (1) to analyze the depiction of marital conflict in the play, (2) to examine the cultural, gender, and societal factors influencing marital conflict, and (3) to explore the potential of theatre as a tool for promoting understanding and resolving marital conflict. The study employed both a textual analysis of the play and a survey of 50 respondents from Ikere Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria, who had read the play. The textual analysis revealed that Wedlock of the Gods highlights the intersection of gender inequality, economic pressures, and societal expectations as primary causes of marital conflict. It also explored how these conflicts are resolved, often through a combination of dialogue, defiance, and traditional practices. The survey responses indicated that the majority of participants found the portrayal of marital conflict realistic and relevant to contemporary Nigerian society, emphasizing issues such as gender inequality, parental influence, and economic pressures as key contributors to marital strife. Furthermore, a significant proportion of respondents felt that the conflict resolution strategies presented in the play, such as communication, personal rebellion, and external intervention, were both effective and applicable to real-life marital situations. The study also explored the role of theatre in promoting social change, particularly in the context of marital conflict. It was found that while theatre may not directly resolve marital disputes, it can serve as acatalyst for dialogue and reflection, helping to challenge societal norms and raise