Title: The Trials of Brother Jero
Book Author: Wole Soyinka
Summary: “The Trials of Brother Jero” is a play by Wole Soyinka that centers on the character Brother Jero.
Brother Jero is a charismatic preacher operating in a coastal Nigerian town. Known for his charm and persuasive skills, he exploits religion to amass power and wealth.
The play centers on themes of hypocrisy, corruption, and the complex relationship between faith and exploitation.
Brother Jero embodies the contradictions of religious leadership, as he manipulates the vulnerabilities of his followers while presenting himself as a spiritual authority.
As the story progresses, Jero faces various challenges, including conflicts with his wife, who recognizes his deceit, and a rival preacher who poses a threat to his position.
The tension escalates as Jero navigates these trials, exposing the moral complexities of his character and actions.
The play critiques the use of faith for personal gain and sheds light on the societal issues surrounding religious institutions in post-colonial Nigeria.
Through humor and satire, Soyinka offers a sharp commentary on the nature of belief and the repercussions of ethical compromise.
Publisher: Dramatist’s Play Service
Genre: Literary fiction and African Literature
ISBN 10: 0822210908
ISBN 13: 978-0822210900
Year of Publication: Originally published in 1963 by Oxford University Press
Date of Publication: January 1, 1998 (by Dramatist’s Play Service)
Pages: 72
