The Voter by Chinua Achebe

In The Voter by Chinua Achebe we have the theme of corruption, loyalty, guilt, power, greed and tradition. Taken from his Girls at War and Other Stories collection the story is narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator and after reading the story the reader realises that Achebe may be exploring the theme of corruption. As a politician Marcus has made sure that his life has improved in comparison to those who live in Umuofia. He has built himself a new home with running water yet his constituents don’t have the same access to water as Marcus does. Though it is not explicitly stated that Marcus has inappropriately obtained his property the fact that he has ready and easy access to large amounts of money suggests that he may be corrupt. Also Roof on Marcus’ instructions bribes some of the local elders in order to ensure that they will vote for Marcus. At no stage in the story does Roof advise the elders as to why they should vote for Marcus or what benefit electing Marcus will be to the community. The reality being that Roof is bribing the elders in order to ensure that they vote for Marcus regardless of what Marcus might and might not do for those in the village. Roof’s main concern is not the elders or those in the community but Marcus himself. There also seems to be no thought given by the elders as to what the consequences of their actions (voting for Marcus) might be. Just as Marcus and Roof are corrupt so too are the local elders who are more concerned with receiving payment for their vote than they are on improving life in the village.

It may also be a case that Achebe is exploring the theme of loyalty. Not only do the elders accept a bribe in return for their loyalty to Marcus but Roof too accepts a bribe to ensure that he will vote for Maduka. Even though he spends the entirety of the story attempting to ensure that Marcus will get re-elected Roof at the end shows Marcus no loyalty. Having being swayed by the five pounds he has received in order to vote for Maduka. Which in many ways is ironic as there is a sense that even though Roof is working for Marcus he cannot be trusted by Marcus. It is also possible that Achebe is placing a spotlight on the way that elections were held in Nigeria at the time the story was written. With the possibility that corruption was commonplace. By bribing the elders of a village a politician was able to ensure that they got elected. Where many would expect an individual to be allowed to independently decide on who they should vote for this is not the case in the story. With constituents being instructed by the elders on which way to vote.

It is also difficult to say for certain as to why Roof begins to feel guilty about the prospect of voting for Maduka. However it is possible that Roof feels guilty because he is loyal to Marcus and he knows that should Maduka become elected his services will no longer be needed by Marcus. The position he holds in the village will be lost and as such he will no longer have the authority that he feels he has over others. Any power that Roof does have will be gone. He will no longer be able to benefit personally as he has been able to do while Marcus has been elected. Just as Marcus may lose any comforts he has obtained from his corruption so too will Roof. There will be no need for the elders to listen to Roof should Marcus lose the election as there will no longer be any available funds to bribe the elders with. The introduction of the iyi may also be important as by introducing it into the story Achebe appears to be exploring the theme of tradition. Roof is very much afraid of the iyi and his actions at the polling station may be triggered by his fear of the iyi and what may happen him should he not fulfill his promise to vote for Maduka.

The end of the story is also interesting if not ironic. By ripping his ballot paper in two and placing half of the paper in each ballot box Roof feels that he has honoured his commitment to vote for Maduka. However if anything Roof has ended up spoiling his vote with neither Marcus nor Maduka getting his vote. Despite having been bribed by one of Maduka’s men and having a sense of loyalty to Marcus Roof hasn’t managed to vote for either man. Something that appears to be lost on Roof with Achebe describing Roof as walking out of the polling station ‘jauntily.’ It might also be a case that Achebe is suggesting that an individual should be allowed to freely cast their vote without the influence of others (Elders, Roof, Marcus and Maduka). Something that has not been the case throughout the story with Roof acting as an agent for corruption in order for Marcus to continue living the lifestyle he has become accustomed to. Yet at the same time he provides no benefit to his constituents. Democracy has not been allowed to play its role due to the corruption that exists in Umuofia. The reader is also aware that when the next election arrives that too will be corrupt thanks to the actions of both Marcus and Maduka. Maduka might not win the election on this occasion but he is preparing himself for the next election. Paying for votes with money and having no concern, like Marcus, for the constituents in Umuofia.

Cite Post
McManus, Dermot. "The Voter by Chinua Achebe." The Sitting Bee. The Sitting Bee, 9 Nov. 2016. Web.

371 comments

  • Nice story from Prof Chinua Achebe. I would like to get involved more on your platform to share views with you guys!

  • That’s the most interesting short story I have ever read. Chinua Achebe also portrays through this story an individual torn between two forces.

  • I read the whole story but can I ask “how did the village elders take advantage to the cash enticements?”

    For school purpose.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Ezenwa. One of the elders. Is looking for more than two shillings to vote for Marcus Ibe (8th paragraph. Look at paragraph 7 as well).

    • 1.What did Marcus use to lure the villagers into continuing to vote for him?
      2.How do you compare the enticement of the opposing party?
      3.How did the other party’s enticement affect Roof?
      4.What is the theme of the story?

      • Dermot (Post Author)

        1. He bribed them.

        2. I would need to read the story again to answer this question.

        3. He ended up ripping up his ballot paper believing he could vote for both men.

        4. The main theme is corruption.

  • It is good summary, it helps me to increase my knowledge, thank you.

  • What qualities did roof have which different from marcus?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I’m not sure either man is different. Roof is as corrupt as Marcus. However near the end of the story Roof does develop a conscience. Something that is noticeable by his ripping of the ballot paper.

    • It is fantastic explanation about the voter. Which is the symbol of pop whether head or car?

      • Dermot (Post Author)

        If POP means the Progressive Organisation Party than I would say the symbol may be the head.

        • 2. What wrong election practices are depicted in the story from the side of the candidates and from the of the voters.

          3. What were Marcus Ibe’s campaign strategies?

          4. Why would someone from the opposing camp even try to buy Roof’s vote knowing that Roof’s is a firm supporter of Marcus Ibe’s?

          5. Why would someone like Roof, a staunch follower of Ibe, even entertain and listen to someone from the opposition

          6. Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story than he is at the end.

          7. How does Roof feel about himself after he does to resolve his dilemma? What makes you say so?

          8. What does Roof’s decision reveal about himself?

          9. What might be the result of Roof’s decision at the voting booth? Will his decision do anyone, including himself, any good? Why?

          10. What motivates the character the village elders,Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof to behave as they do?

  • I am still confused who did roof vote for in the end?

  • Well explained. 1994 when I was doing Matric it was difficult to get the theme. This is what happening in RSA today ‘s elections. Beware small parties…

  • Can you please help me with these questions? (Sorry if my English is bad)

    1. What national event serves as the background of the story?
    2. Who are the two candidates?
    3. How did the villagers regard the reelectionist? Why?
    4. What does Rufus refer to when he warns the reelectionist of the radical change that had come to the minds of the electorate?
    5. How did the villagers regard the reelectionist? Why?
    6. As part of the campaign, what enticements did the reelectionist party offer?
    7. How did the village elders take advantage of the cash enticement?
    8. In what way was the enticement of the opposite party similar? Different?
    9. How did the enticement of the opposite party effect Rufus?

    This is my son’s homework, and I think that he could not do it, so I ask for your help.

    Thanks in advance!

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Working from memory.

      1. General Election.
      2. Roof (or Rufus) and Marcus.
      3.I’m not sure but I think they may have liked him because he paid for votes (you might like to double check).
      4. People’s thinking may have changed ( an expectation that a doctor cures the sick may no longer be true).
      5. Same as 3.
      6. Bribes or money for votes.
      7. Sorry I’m not sure.
      8. Rufus tried to bribe the elders too. But the POP campaign team put five pounds on the floor for the elders.
      9. He wasn’t concerned if people voted for him. He wasn’t paying the elders more than two shillings each.

      • Thank you so much! Your answer is highly appreciated!

      • 1.If you were in Roof’s place, and was offered the same from opposing party, what would you do? Why?
        2.What do the elders say Marcus has done that is “shameful” and why is it shameful? Would you also feel ashamed if you were the elders?

        • Dermot (Post Author)

          1. You may be better equipped to answer the question for yourself.

          2. Giving them two shillings. They consider this to be too little and their votes are worth more. I don’t think the elders are thinking about feeling ashamed. They are lining their own pockets.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Change for Q2. Answer is Marcus and a member of the POP party.

  • How did the enticement of the opposite party affect Rufus? Do you think the other voters would have been affected in the same way?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Rufus was tempted and I do believe others would have been tempted too. Five pounds is a lot of money to Rufus.

  • How did the village elders take advantage of the cash enticement

  • Good analysis of the voter. The story throws light on the extent in which corruption has eaten deeply into our political system.

  • 1.why was the leader of the pop campaign team visited roof of the last night of the campaign?

    2. Did Roof comply in the aggrement made by the POP campaign leader? explain.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I would need to read the story again to answer your question.

      2. No Roof ripped his ballot paper in two and tried to vote for both parties.

  • What is the
    events(3):
    Problem :
    Solution:

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Election coming up.

      2. Roof is torn between who to vote for.

      3. Roof rips up ballot paper and votes for two parties. Spoiling his vote.

  • What is the problem and important events and the solution

    School purposes

    Thanks in advance

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Roof is dealing with conflict within himself. Not knowing who to vote for. He resolves the issue by voting for both candidates. Though at the same time spoils his vote.

  • How did Marcus Ibe became involved in politics

  • What was the twist towards the end of the story?
    What surprising decision did Roof make, and what did his decision imply?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Roof rips his ballot card in two.

      2. By ripping his ballot card in two Roof is trying to vote for two people. However instead he has spoiled his vote.

  • Thank you. I can answer now my assignment

    1.how can you relate the characters of the story to the people in real life? Whom did you think when you read about Roof, Marcus Ibe, and the villagers?

    2. If you could add to the ending, how would you include the election?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Difficult to say. People are selfish (as is Roof) yet they want to do the right thing (as does Roof).

      2. I’d write that Roof didn’t vote at all or if he did it was not driven by bribery.

  • Its so good story

  • please answer my question thank you! what was the cause of the conflict between roof and the elders?

  • how does the theme in the voter reflect reality?

  • Can you please help me with these question?

    What comment does the story offer on the electoral system? Is it relevant? Do you think the story highlights the statement , “democracy is more than holding elections regularly.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Corruption is a part and parcel of elections in some countries. Roof and Marcus are selfish and out for themselves. Like a lot of people in politics. I do think the story highlights the statement.

  • What is an english translation for ‘abi na pickin im de born’ from ‘The Voter’

  • How is the story a replica to contemporary world?

  • Achebe’s the voter, portrays the decadence in the nation body policy.

  • Is this african selection also significant in other parts of the world? Why?

  • What is the resolution in the story?

  • What is the resolution of the voter. Analyze it.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      If you have a look at the previous comment you’ll find an answer. I would also need to tread the story again to analyse the resolution.

  • What is the appreciation of the story?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I’m not sure. Is it the lesson that is learnt. The fact that Roof can’t make up his mind possibly because his conscience is playing on him.

  • Please help me answer these questions
    How would you describe the elders in the story?
    Is this african selection also significant to people in other parts of the world? Why?
    In what sense does the selection contain a political tone?

  • The narrative technique

  • Can you please answer this. Villagers said that marcus is not like the mortar which as soon as food comes its way turns its back on the ground . What does it mean?

  • At the beginning of the novel they show us how the people believed so much n trusted in Rufus but we see him cooperating with Marcus who treats the villagers poorly did they realise that he is corrupt after all

  • The novel leaves us in suspense.please tell me who won the elections

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Roof may not have been the only person bribed to vote for Maduka. So I would suggest Maduka won the rigged election.

  • please help me answering this questions

    What is your reaction to these enticements and the villagers’ attitude towards them?

    What do the following passages mean? Give details from the story to illustrate the meaning of each passage.

    Do you think the people in the story were ready for the election process? Why or why not?

    Which part of the story is your favorite? Why? What does it remind you f your own experience? Of an event?

    If you were to talk to the voting constituents of your own country, what would you tell them?

    Are you familiar with the “Right to Suffrage”? What does it say?

    How is the “Right to Vote” significant or insignificant to every citizen of a nation? to the Nation? To he country at large?

    How is the story similar to or different from the reality/ies in your own country’s election?

    Thank you in advance

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I’m sorry but I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      a) The villagers were bribed and wished to be bribed. However they argued over how much money they should get. They wanted more than two shillings and got three shillings.

      b) I do not have access to the passages.

      c) The people in the story were willing to be bribed for their vote. The timing of the election was a convenience for them.

      d) I like the fact that Roof ripped his ballot in two. Thinking he could vote for two people. When the reality is he spoiled his vote by ripping the ballot card.

      e) Vote for the man or woman who you think will best serve the community.

      f) I’m not familiar with the ‘Rights of Suffrage.’

      g) It allows for people to have a voice.

      h) I think you would be best served to answer this question.

  • Can you pls help me too. Plsss
    Questions: THE VOTER by Chinua Ezenwa
    1. Describe what kind of person Ezenwa is?
    2. Describe how you think the main character feels in the beginning of the story.
    3. Why did Roofs Beteayed his friend Marcus Ibe? Explain.
    4. If you we’ee Roofs would you also betrayed a friend ? Explain.
    5. What events in the story that happen in real life?
    6. Describe the main characters feel in the end of story.
    7. How does the story relates to the writer?
    8. If you were Roof what other ideas would you do in that sitiutions?
    9.What are the moral lesson of the story?
    10. Compare this story with other stories you have read in the past?

    Civilian and soldier by wole soyinka
    QUESTIONS
    1. Explain the poem by stanza.
    2. Who is the speaker in the poem?
    3. If you were the soldier, will you do the same?
    4. What is the themeof the poem?
    5.What does the text have to do with you, personally, and with your life?
    6. What values, virtues character traits, and actions does the author either not question or seem to hold up for admiration?
    7.How much does the text agree or clash with your view of the world and what you consider right and wrong?
    8. What did you learn, and how were your views and opinions challenged or change by this text? Did the text communicate with you? Why or why not?
    9. How are symbols, images and other poetic devices used?
    10. How the author relate his poem to his personal life?.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I would need to read the story again to answer your question.

      I haven’t read Civilian and Soldier.

  • Questions: THE VOTER by Chinua Achebe
    1. Describe what kind of person Ezenwa is?
    2. Describe how you think the main character feels in the beginning of the story.
    3. Why did Roofs Beteayed his friend Marcus Ibe? Explain.
    4. If you we’ee Roofs would you also betrayed a friend ? Explain.
    5. What events in the story that happen in real life?
    6. Describe the main characters feel in the end of story.
    7. How does the story relates to the writer?
    8. If you were Roof what other ideas would you do in that sitiutions?
    9.What are the moral lesson of the story?
    10. Compare this story with other stories you have read in the past?

  • What are the moral lesson of the story of the voter by chinua achebe?

  • Mavin Nasasira

    i read it.But we should stop saying that Roof voted,he instead destroyed the vote..

  • 1. How can you relate the characters of the story to people in real life? Whom did you think of when you read about roof, marvus ibe, and the villagers? Elaborate on your comparisons

    2. How would you characterize roof? How would you describe him in the BEGGINING, MIDDLE, AND CONCLUDING PART of the story?

    3. What was the twist towards the end of the story? What surprising decision did roof make, and what did his decision imply?

    4.if you could add to the ending, how would you conclude the election? Who would win the ministerial position, and how would roof’s decision affect that outcome?

    5. What is the significance of this story in Africa’s modern history?

  • What sort of tactics did Marcus Ibe use to entice the villagers into continuing to vote for him?

  • What is the theme of the story?

  • If you were in Roof’s place, and was offered the same from the opposing party, what would you do? Why?

  • 1.Do you think th people in the story were ready for the election process?why or why not?
    2.In what eay is the enticement of the opposite party similar?different?
    3.who are the two candidates?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I don’t think they necessarily knew or took an interest in the election but instead looked forward to the bribe.

      2. Both parties bribed the electorate with different amounts of money.

      3. Marcus and Maduka.

  • 1.According to the villagers, what was Rufus’s motivation for leaving a promising career?

    2.In this story, Rufus has to make a difficult decision about how to cast his vote. Do you agree with the way he resolves this dilemma? Why or why not?

    3.Why is Rufus popular in his village?

    4.What can you infer about the village’s economic situation from the narrator’s explanation of Rufus’ popularity?

    5.What does the villagers think of Marcus Ibe? Explain.

    6.Why does the leader of the opposition’s campaign offer Rufus a bribe? Do you think Rufus believe he is betraying Marcus Ibe by accepting a bribe? Explain.

    7.In what sense does the selection contain a political tone?

    8.What decision does Roof make in the voting booth? What do you think will be the result of Roof’s vote?

    9.What qualities did Roof have which made him different from Marcus?
    How would you describe the elders in the story?

    10.Is this selection also significant to people in other parts of the world? Why?
    What are the similarities between Philippine politics and Nigerian politics?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. To help in motivating his fellow villagers.

      2. I don’t agree as he ended up spoiling his vote.

      3. People believe he is an energetic man and are grateful for this.

      4. The other villagers may feel defeated and without hope.

      5. They like him and feel he has prospered well for someone from the village.

      6. He offers him a bribe because he wants Roof’s vote. I believe that Roof knows he is betraying Marcus because he tries to vote for both men.

      7. You appear to be working off an extract (or selection) that I don’t have access to.

      8. Ideology speaking roof still believed in the truth, despite his actions. The elders I would say are self-centered and looking out for themselves.

      9. You appear to be working off an extract (or selection) that I don’t have access to

  • Please help me
    1.what do you think is Achebe’s purpose in writing the story?
    2.what qualities did roof which made him different from Marcus?
    3.how would you describe the elders in the story?
    4.is this selection also significant to people in other part of the world? Why?
    5.what are the similarities between Philippines politics and Nigeria politics?
    6.why is Rufus popular in his village? What can you infer about the village’s economic situation from the narrator explanation of Rufus popularity?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. To highlight corruption in politics and how easy it is for someone (Roof) to become involved.

      2. I would need to read the story again to answer this question.

      3. I would describe them as corrupt and selfish.

      4. You’re working off an extract or selection I don’t have access to.

      5. I’m not sure.

      6. Rufus has made a successful life for himself. Whereas the other villagers still struggle.

  • Please help me two more questions thank you so much

    1. What can other themes be inferred from the story?
    2. Have you a different interpretations of the story?
    How would you express the theme?

  • Who is character of POP and PAP?

  • How did Marcus end?

  • K thak u bt lets say that your explaining the theme of corruption in the text.nw tell me what sticks on that theme

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I would look at the causes of corruption. In this case Roof bribes the elders and is then bribed himself by the POP. The election is not fair and honest.

  • “Roof: It will not be heard outside this room? The Campaigner: we are after votes not gossip. Roof : All right” . Please anyone explain it

  • pls help me for answer the question
    1.what are the similarities between Philippine politics and Nigerian politics?
    2.how would you describe the elders in the story?
    3.in what sense does the selection contain a politcal tone?
    4.what qualities did roof have which made him different from marcus?
    5.what does the villagers think of marcus ibe? explain

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not up to date with Philippine or Nigerian politics.

      2. Selfish and greedy

      3. The story is about corruption in politics.

      4. I’m not sure.

      5. The think he is a successful man due to his outward appearance.

  • How do you compare the enticement of the opposing party?

  • How was language used to resolve the conflict in this story

  • what did Roof ‘s decision reveal about himself?

  • 1.What makes Rufus (Roof) a popular young man in his village?
    2.What strategies did Marcus Ibe use to get the villagers to still vote for him?
    3.Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote for Maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?
    4. What made Roof listen to the opposition?
    5. Why did the people decide not to cast their vote for free in the forthcoming election?
    6. What changes took place in Rufus throughout the story?
    7. To every human comes a time of decision making.How does this reflect Roof’s dilemma during the election day?
    8. What is the significance of Roof’sa action when he inserted the tornballot papers in the box?
    9. Do you think Rufusis a smart manipulator? justify
    10. Did Roof follow the call of conscience? Justify
    11. Will the decision of Roof do anyone, including himself, any good? Why

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Working from memory.

      1. He is considered to be successful.

      2. He bribed them.

      3. He needed all the votes he could get.

      4. They were bribing him.

      5. I’m not sure You might read the story to figure this question out.

      6. From working diligently for Marcus he ends up becoming like the elders and accepting a bribe from the opposition party.

      7. I’m not sure You might read the story to figure this question out.

      8. His vote has been spoiled because he ripped the ballot paper in two.

      9. I don’t because he was so easily bribed by the opposition.

      10. He did. He felt guilty about his actions and as such tried to vote for two parties.

      11. No. His ballot is spoiled.

  • 1.What makes Rufus(Roof)a popular young man in his village?
    2.What strategies did Marcus Ibe used to get the villagers to still vote for him?
    3.Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote for Maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?
    4.What made Roof listen to the opposition?
    5.Why did the people not to cast thier vote for free for the forth coming elections?
    6.What changes took place on Rufus throughout the story?
    7.To every human come a time of desicion -making.How does this reflect Roof’s delimma during the election day?
    8.What is the significance of Roof action when he inserted the torn ballot papers in the box?
    9.Do you think Rufus is a smart manipulator?Justify your answer.
    10.Did Roof follow the call of conscience ?Justify your answer.
    11.Will the decision of Roof do anyone,including him self,any good?Why?

  • How do you compare the enticement of the opposing party?

  • if you were in roof’s place, and was offered the same from the opposiing party, what would you do?

  • how do you compare the enticement of the opposing party?

  • 1. Cite an instance where Roof used language was use to resolve a conflict?

    2. how can language lead to conflict resolution?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not sure. I would need to read the story again.

      2. Language can be used to find common ground or calm someone down.

  • 1.what made roof listen to the opposite?
    2.what changes took place in rufus throughout the story
    3.to every human comes a time of distinction making.how does this reflect roofs dilemma during the election day? 4.what is significance of roofs action when he inserted the torn ballot papers in the box?
    5.do you think rufus is a smart manipulator?justify your answer?
    6.did roof follow the call of conscience?justify your answer?
    7.will the decision of roof do anyone,including him self,any good?why?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I would need to read the story again to answer this question.

      2. Rufus went from being a confident young man to becoming confused.

      3. I’m nor sure.

      4. He spoiled his vote.

      5. I don’t think he is smart. He was easily manipulated by the opposition.

      6. He tried to but got confused and spoiled his vote by ripping the ballot in two.

      7. Others (the reader) might learn from Rufus’ mistake in accepting a bribe

  • 1.Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote fo Madula despite being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?
    2.What made Roof listen to the opposition?
    3.Why did the people decided not to cast their vote for free in the forth comming election?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Perhaps if others seen Roof vote for Maduka, they would vote for him too.

      2. I’m not sure. they offered him a bribe.

      3. Possibly because they knew they could get money for their vote.

  • What does IYI means?

  • What is the meaning of “an oyo feast” in the story? 🙁

  • 2.What strategies did Marcus Ibe use to get the villagers to still vote for him?
    3.Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote for Maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?
    4. What made Roof listen to the opposition?
    5. Why did the people decide not to cast their vote for free in the forthcoming election?

  • 1.What is the national event happened in the story?
    2.who are the 2 candidates
    3. what did the villagers see in the politics whithin the 5 years of service
    4.what did the politician offer to the voters during campaign
    5.what did marcus use to lure the villagers into continuing the vote for him
    6 how do you compare the enticement of the opposite party
    7 how did the other parties in enticement affect roof
    8 what did the theme of the story
    9 if you were in the roof place and was offered the same from opposing party what would you do ?why?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Election.

      2. Marcus and Maduka.

      3. I’m not sure.

      4. Bribes.

      5. Money (Bribery).

      6. More money was offered to Roof.

      7. He ripped his ballot in two.

      8. The main theme is corruption.

      9. I would like to think I would be more honest and vote for the best candidate.

  • We to bare in mind how important to know the worth of our votes and to think what is best in our community or what is good..

    Who among the elected person is the best to serve us.. and it’s upon to us who of them we will vote ….

  • Is iyi corrupt?

  • Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote for Maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?

    What changes took place in Rufus throughout the story?

    To every human comes a time of decision-making. How does this reflect Roofs dilemma during the election day?

    What is the significance of Roof’s action when he inserted the torn ballot papers in the box?

    Do you think Rufus is a smart manipulator? Justify your answer.

    Did Roof follow the call of conscience? Justify your answer.

    Will the decision of Roof do anyone, including himself, any good? Why?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not sure.

      2. He went from =being a confident young man to being confused.

      3. It highlights how easily manipulated Roof can be.

      4. Roof has spoiled his ballot.

      5. No. he is just like the elders and easily manipulated.

      6. Yes but it came at a price. It cost him his vote.

      7. No. He feels guilty about his actions.

  • 5. Why would someone like Roof,a staunch follower of Ibe, even entertain and listen to someone from the opposition?
    6. Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story than he is at the end?
    7. How does Roof feel about himself after what he does to resolve his dilemma? what makes you say so?
    8. What does Roof’s decision reveal about himself?
    9. What might be the result of Roof’s decision at the voting booth? Will his decision do anyone, including himself, any good? why?
    10. What motivates the characters-the village elders, Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof-to behave as they do?

    ANSWER PLEASE THANKS

  • 1.What made roof listen to the opposition?

    2.What changes took place in roof throughout the story?

    3.Why did the people deicde not to tocast their vote for free in the forthcoming election?

    4.Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask roof to vote for maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of marcus ibe?

    5. Do you think roof is a smart manipulator? Justify your answer.

    6. Did roof follow the call of conscience? Justify your answer.

    7.Will the decision of room do anyone, including himself any good? Why?

    8.To every human comes a time of decision making. How does this reflect roofs dilemma during the election day?

    9.What significance of roofs action when he inserted the tom ballot papers in the box?

    7.

  • What made roof listen to the opposition?

  • If you were in Roof’s place and was offered the same from the opposing party what would you do? Why?

  • What motivates the characters -the village elders,Marcus Ibe,the leader of the opposing party ,and Roof to behave as they do ?.

  • what does Roof’s decision reveal about himself?

  • Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask roof to vote for maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?

  • Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story than he is at the end?

  • How does Roof feel about himself after what he does to resolve his dilemma? What makes you say so?

  • Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story than he is at the end?

  • What made roof listen to the opposition?

    2 why did the people decide not to cast their vote for free in the forth coming election

    3 what changes took place in rufus throughout the story

    4 what is the significance pf roofs action when he inserted the torn ballot papers in the box

    6 did rufus follow the call pf conscience, JUSTIFY

    7 will the decision of roof do anyone, including himself any good? Why?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not sure.

      2. They knew that they could get money for their vote.

      3. He went from a confident young man to one who was confused.

      4. He spoiled his ballot.

      5. He some way he did. He spoiled his ballot thinking it would help both parties.

      6. No. Because his ballot is spoiled. In reality he voted for no one.

      6.

  • 1 what reasons does roof give to convince the villagers to voter for Marcus ide other then bribes? Are his reasons sincere or mere campaign rhetoric? support with evidence in the story

    2 what’s the main theme in the voter

    3what might roofs torn ballot symbolize?

    4how do roofs actions in this story parallel the problems Nigeria faced after gaining independence

    5 why might Achebe have chose to criticize his country in this story

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not sure.

      2. Corruption

      3. A spoiled ballot.

      4.I’m not familiar with Nigerian politics.

      5. He may have seen that corruption was systemic.

  • thank you i have a couple more if you don’t mind

    write a brief summary of the main ideas in this excerpt

    were you surprised by the way tutu describes the experience of voting? Explain

    how do people behave while waiting in line to vote, according to tutu what effect does waiting to vote have on the population
    what does tut compare the situation of black and white south Africans? Is it effective explain?

    according to tutu “transfigures” both black and white voters. What imagines does tutu use to describe this change? given what you know about the history of south Africa why might voting have this effect ?

    contrast tutus experience of voting with experience of voting described in Chinua Achebe’s the voter considering the histories of south Africa and Nigeria why might these two authors portray voting differently?

  • Pls help me to this questions..

    1.If you were in Roof’s place,and was offered the same from the opposing party,what would you do?why?

    2.what do the elders say marcus has done that is “shameful”and why is it shameful?would you also feel ashamed if you were the elders?

  • What motivates the characters- the village elders, Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof- to behave as they do?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      They’re all concerned with receiving money for their votes. Marcus and Maduka are willing to pay them in order to win the election.

  • 2. What wrong election practices are depicted in the story from the side of the candidates and from the of the voters.

    3. What were Marcus Ibe’s campaign strategies?

    4. Why would someone from the opposing camp even try to buy Roof’s vote knowing that Roof’s is a firm supporter of Marcus Ibe’s?

    5. Why would someone like Roof, a staunch follower of Ibe, even entertain and listen to someone from the opposition

    6. Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story than he is at the end.

    7. How does Roof feel about himself after he does to resolve his dilemma? What makes you say so?

    8. What does Roof’s decision reveal about himself?

    9. What might be the result of Roof’s decision at the voting booth? Will his decision do anyone, including himself, any good? Why?

    10. What motivates the character the village elders,Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof to behave as they do?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      2. The election is corrupt and some people receive bribes.

      3. To bribe the elders.

      4. Maduka offered Roof more money than Marcus had offered him.

      5. To see what he might have to say and to see if their was going to be a bribe involved.

      6. Roof starts off as a confident young man and ends up being confused.

      7. Roof feels awful about what he has done. He feels guilty.

      8. It reveals that Roof is corrupt but can’t live with this fact.

      9. Roof’s vote is worthless as he tore his ballot in two. While attempting to vote for both Marcus and Maduka.

      10. I would say they are driven by greed.

  • 1. If you were in Roofs place, and was offered the same from the opposing party, what would you do?Why?

    2. What do elders say Marcus has done that is “shameful” and why is is shameful? Would you also feel ashamed if you were the elders?

  • what do the elders say marcus has done that is ”shameful”and why is it shameful? would you also feel ashamed if you were the eldres?please answer it

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Only giving them two shillings for their vote. It is shameful because the elders want more. I would like to think I wouldn’t accept a bribe.

  • What did the villagers see in the politics within the five years of service

  • Hi. I’m from Philippines. Can you answer this questions for me? I really need this for my output. Thank you!
    1. What do you think is Achebe’s purpose in writing the story?
    2. In what sense does the selection contain a political tone?
    3. Is this African selection also significant to Filipino people? Why?
    4. What morale have you learned from the story?
    5. If you were Roof would you do the same as what he did at the end of the selection? Why?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. To highlight political corruption in Nigeria (Africa).
      2. The story is set around a general election and we are introduced to characters from two political parties (PAP and POP).
      3. I’m not sure. I’m not up to date with Filipino politics.
      4. Corruption is wrong.
      5. I’d like to think I would be more honest.

  • How do you compare the enticement of the opposing party

  • Can you please help me for this question
    1.what wrong election practices are depicted in the story from the side of the candidates and from that of the voters?
    2.what were Marcus lbe’s campaign strategies?
    3.what does roof’s decision reveal about himself?
    4.what motivates the characters-the village elders, Marcus lbe, the leader of the opposing party, and roof-to behave as they do?
    5.trace the changes that take place in roof.how different is he at the beginning of the story he is at the end?
    6.why would someone like roof,a staunch follower of lbe,even entertain and listen to someone from the opposition?
    I hope you can help me ..thanks and God bless

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Corruption and bribery.

      2. To bribe the elders.

      3. That he is as corrupt as the elders.

      4. Money.

      5. He goes from being confident to being confused.

      6. It highlights that everybody may have a price.

  • Why this is a short story with illustrations from the book

  • 1. What made Rufus (Roof) a popular young man in his village?

    2 Why did the opposing team campaign leader ask Roof to vote for Maduka despite him being an ardent supporter of Marcus Ibe?

    3. What made Roof listen to the opposition?

    4. What changes took place in Rufus throughout the story?

    5.Do you think that Roof is a smart manipulator? Justify your anwser.

    6.DId Roof follow the call of consience? Justify your answer.

    Hello. This was an amazing and interesting review of yours! I was amazed. Thank you if you answered the questions.

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. He was well liked and successful.

      2. I’m not sure. He may have thought every vote counted.

      3. Again I’m not sure.

      4. He went from being a confident young man to being confused.

      5. I don’t think he is. He felt guilty about his actions.

      6. He may have. He felt guilty about his actions and tried to repair the situation.

  • If you were in Roofs place, and was offered the same from the opposing party, what would you do? Why?

  • Can you help me to solve this question, I was really admire the story by Chinua Achebe I’m an beginner writer.

    1.What did Marcus use to lure the villagers?

    2.How do you compare the enticement of the opposing party?

    3.How did the other party’s enticement affect Roof?

    That’s all thank you:-)

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Money. He bribed the elders.

      2. It is more than what Roof was offering the elders.

      3. He ended up splitting his vote in two.

  • The book is interesting

  • Will Roof manage to reattain his position after being Democrat

  • What does this story reveal about the african character

  • is this African selection who significant to people in other parts of the world?why?

  • Given the conflict situations, what would you have done if you
    were in the shoes of one of the characters? Why would you do it? Write a
    short letter to one of the main character and give him/her some advice…
    Thank you

  • Given the conflict situations, what would you have done if you were in the shoes of one of the characters? Why would you do it? Write a short letter to one of the main character and give him/her some advice…Thank you so much

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Roof,

      I know you made a mistake but try to move on from it and be a better person. Don’t let what happened define you.

      Your friend.

  • What were Marcus Ibe’s Campaign strategies?

  • what wrong election practices are depicted in the story from the side of the candidates and from that of the voters?

  • 1. Do you think the people in the story were ready for the election process? Why or why not?
    2. If you were to talk to the voting constituents of our country, what would you tell them?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. I’m not sure they really cared about the election or the process. As long as they received money.

      2. Vote for the candidate that best serves the community. Without the enticement of money.

  • Why would someone like roof,a staunch follower of ibe,even entertain and listen to someone from the opposition?

  • Cite 5 examples of wrong election practices presented in the story

  • What is the message of the story and how it reflects to your real-life situation?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      Don’t allow or be tempted by corruption. In a real life situation ask questions of those you are voting for.

  • What are the local colors found in the story?

  • What are the local colors in the story?

  • what is the local color story of this story?

  • What is the historical references, social customs, and traditions of this story?

  • How did maduka influence roof’s decision on whom to vote?

  • What were Marcus ibe’s campaign strategies?

  • what is the thesis statement and the main idea?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      I’m not sure what the thesis statement is but the main idea of the story is that corruption doesn’t pay.

  • 1. Trace the changes that take place in Roof. How different is he at the beginning of the story that he is at the end?
    2. How does Roof feel about himself after what he does to resolve his dilemma?
    3.what does Roof’s decission reveal about himself?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Roof at the beginning of the story is confident. however by the story’s end he is overwhelmed by confusion.
      2. He feels as though he has done the right thing.
      3. That he has been corrupt.

  • 1. What might be the result of Roof’s decission at the voting booth? Will his decission do anyone including himself, any good? Why?
    2. What motivates the characters the village elders, Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof to behave as they do?
    3. What are the sensory images used in the selection? (Visual, Auditory, Olfactory, Gustatory, Tactile, Motion)

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1.He has spoiled his vote and it will not be counted in the results.
      2. Greed (the elders and Roof) and Power ( Marcus Ibe and the opposing party leader).
      3. I’m not sure.

  • What does the leader of opposition campaign offer Roof a bribe?Do you think that Roof believe that he is betraying Marcus lbe by accepting the bribe? Explain

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      He offers Roof five pounds. At the time Roof thinks it’s okay but by the end of the story he is filled with remorse and regret.

  • Do you think the people in the story were ready for the election process? Why or why not?

  • Characterization in the story

  • what is the issues and concern in this story?

  • Why does Roof betrayed Marcus Ibe?

  • 1. What might be the results of Roof’s decision at the voting booth? Will his decision do anyone, including himself, any good? Why?

    2. What motivates the characters the village elders, Marcus Ibe, the leader of the opposing party, and Roof to behave as they do?

    • Dermot (Post Author)

      1. Roof’s decision does not affect the outcome of the election as he has spoiled his vote.

      2. Corruption and greed.

  • How does Roof feel about himself after what he does to resolve his dilemma? What makes you say so?

  • how did the village elders take advantage of the cash enticement

  • what is the falling action of this?

  • what is the climate of this?

  • in this story the problem starts when…

  • thanks for the insightful analysis. this has help me understand this short story so well.

  • Please help me in the main idea and conclusion of the story The Voter Written by Chinua Achebe 1965

  • What is the climax of the story?

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