AFRICAN DRAMA
Joe De Graft: Sons and Daughters
Discuss the character and the role of Aunt Fosuma in the play
Explanation
Fosuwa is paternal aunt to Aaron and Maanan, living together with James' (her brother) family in the family home. She is commonly referred to as Aunt.
Fosuwa is one of those in society who worship prestige and money.' Without ascertaining the actual type of igayoel relationship between Maanan and Awere, she shows dislike for Awere simply because Awere is a young man, not as rich as Lawyer Bonu that Fosuwa wants Maanan to marry.
As a result of her love for money, she subverts James' best intentions and encourages Lawyer Bonu blindly in his desire to have an affair with Maanan, "Please don't leave, Lawyer, please. I know how angry you are, but please forgive Maanan, she's only a girl."
Fosuwa confirms her interest in the Lawyer having a relationship with Maanan when the Lawyer's wife goes to James' house to look for her husband. She insults her: if Lawyer was satisfied with you, he wouldn't be interested in Maanan."
She is a gossip and interferes in matters that do not concern her, in one instance, Hannah has to tell her to story interfering in her family affairs.
Fosuwa typifies an African sister-in-law. Anytime Hannah says something that Fosuwa perceives as limiting her influence on her family, Fosuwa flares-up. "Whatever it is you have given him to eat, you only know"
Fosuwa sees nothing wrong with polygamy as she proclaims. "Why, a man can marry more than one!" After all she has been married three times. That is why she encourages the Lawyer Bonue and Maanan relationship. The lasting impression which Aunt Fosuwa leaves is that of greedy, immoral woman who will not stop at anything achieve her selfish aims.