AN APPRAISAL OF THE Dibia INSTITUTION ANDTRADITIONAL MEDICINE AS A STYLE IN GODDY ONYEAKAỌNWỤ’S PLAYS

Abstract

This paper examines the traditional medicine institution as a style in Goddy Onyekaonwu’s plays focusing on their roles within Igbo culture. Qualitative research design focusing on textual analysis of the selected Igbo literary texts was adopted. Through an analysis of Nwata Rie Awọ, Ọkụ Ghara Ite, Ọkụ Ụzụ Daa Ibube and Eriri Mara Ngwugwu, this study aims at uncovering the wisdom and knowledge embedded in these plays. Onyekaonwu manipulated this aspect of culture and unveils the secret behind the interpretation and use of these wisdom and knowledge. The theoretical frameworks guiding this analysis are ecocriticism developed in the late 20th century influenced by the environmental movement led by Cheryll Glotfelty and and his team. The second is the theory of indigenous knowledge. This theory is as old as human being. It originates from the daily experiences of indigenous communities. This study therefore seeks to examine how Onyekaonwu incorporates elements of traditional healing within his plays and the symbolic role of traditional medicine in the plays and its impact on the style and choice of themes in the works. The findings suggest that while these dibia types are closely connected in their practices, they differ in their underlying philosophies. The paper concludes that traditional medicine institution provides services that are as effective as those of their orthodox counterparts, emphasizing their ongoing importance in Igbo culture.