Marriage is a Private Affair

The herbalist functions as a symbol of traditional Nigerian culture and the wisdom of the elders. The herbalist is mentioned only briefly in the story, but his character is significant in highlighting the clash between traditional and modern values.

When Okeke learns of Nnaemeka’s intention to marry Nene, his friends counsel him to consult the herbalist for advice. They suggest that Nnaemeka’s condition “calls for medicine” (27), the same medicine “that women supply with success to recapture their husbands’ straying affection” (27). This reliance on native medicine represents the voice of tradition and wisdom and serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting one’s cultural heritage and values.

Interestingly, Okeke refuses his peers’ advice, and is described as “obstinately ahead of his more superstitious neighbors in these matters” (27). This suggests that even Okeke has broken with tradition on some matters. Overall, the herbalist and native medicine serve as symbols of the generational divide between the traditional and modern ways of thinking.

The wedding picture serves as a powerful symbol of the conflict between traditional and modern values, as well as the potential for reconciliation between them. The wedding picture represents