The Gods Are Not to Blame by Ola Rotimi

The Gods Are Not To Blame" is a play by Nigerian playwright Ola Rotimi, first performed in 1968. The play is based on the Greek myth of Oedipus, but set in a Yoruba community in Nigeria.

The play tells the story of Odewale, the son of a king who was told by a seer that his son would kill him and marry his own mother. In an attempt to prevent this from happening, Odewale's father sends him away to be killed as a baby. However, he is rescued and raised by a farmer.

Years later, Odewale unknowingly kills his father and marries his own mother, just as the seer had predicted.

When he learns the truth, he blinds himself in remorse and his mother hangs herself. The play ends with Odewale wandering the streets, a blind and broken man.

Throughout the play, Rotimi explores themes of fate, destiny, and the role of the gods in human life. This brings to fore the power of destiny which might be difficult to challenge.

He also comments on the clash between traditional African culture and the influence of Western culture on African society.

Literature texts are educative, enlightening and didactic.