The play Death and the King's Horseman is based on a real-life incident that took place in Nigeria under British colonial rule, where a horseman of a Yoruba king was prevented from committing ritual suicide by colonial authorities. In response to British interference, Soyinka denounces the Horseman's own fervor toward suicide, posing a problem that unbalances the community. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Through Soyinka's piece, I would try to analyze the Rasa theory. By means and use of images and suggestions resulting in a flavor of infinity and happiness. The image of a Not I bird which appears at the beginning of the piece and which was elaborated by Elesin to the praise singer invokes a Karuna rasa as the bird symbolizes death and separation from near and dear ones, which became Elesin's faith. who is believed to embrace death due to the age-old tradition followed in the village. Rider Elesin is a man full of love and zeal who believes in celebrating life and is in love with a girl whom he also desires to marry. This image arouses Sringara rasa in the readers where the love of life is great, which is portrayed through anubhavas or body movements like in a dance. Unfortunately, this happy rasa is accompanied by pathos or karuna rasa as Elesin has to give up his life and embrace death. The very thought of death arouses fear in the hearts of people around Elesin, which can be considered an apt example of Bhayanaka rasa. The fear of death is so strong in people that they even avoid talking about it. On the other hand, Elesin is brave enough to stand alone and face death, which can also be cited as an example of Veer rasa which is exhibited in valiant people. This act of dying in the name of honor is surely a sufficient example of veer rasa where honor has a higher stature than death. All the incidents and quotations in the play mainly evoke Karuna rasa because Elesin has to undertake death even in front of it. joy of living. Another rasa that can be seen to be aroused is that of Bibhasta, which can be seen as the result of emotion aroused by something unpleasant and unwanted. This rasa is invoked by readers or even actors around Elesin and results from Elesin's lust for women, even as he stands on the verge of death. Elesin's desire for an engaged young woman arouses bibhasta rasa. Another striking example of bibhasta rasa is noticed by Elesin in the eyes of his son Olunde when he does not die outside the traditional ritual. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a Custom Paper Now from our Expert Writers.Get a Custom EssayDespite the tragic ending of the play, Soyinka focuses on the new life that is yet to come into the world in the form of the unborn child carried by the young bride. The Natyashastra is above all a celebration of life, as is the concluding model of the play. The pain and sorrow felt by the audience over the fate of the scapegoat mainly invokes Karuna rasa. Soyinka's plays are considered social plays with a vision.