1. Ibo Masking Ceremonies Two maiden masks and water spirit--Okorishi--mask (center)

2. Cultures in all regions of Africa hold masking ceremonies These societies believe that the world of mortals and the world of spirits and gods are very closely connected The mask allows the mortal wearer to embody the persona of a god, natural spirit or human emotion Mgbedike mask, represents strength and anger

3. The Ibo name for the masks is egwugwu Masks are worn only by high-ranking elders Young men initiated into masking society around 16 Maskers prepare for ceremonies in ritual huts that women and children are always forbidden to enter "And then the egwugwu appeared. The women and children sent up a great shout and took to their heels. It was instinctive." Bird spirit mask

4. Once a tribe member puts on a mask he is no longer himself but instead becomes the spirit of the mask; ceremonial clothes and raffia palms hide his body "Okonkwo's wives...might have noticed that the second egwugwu had the springy walk of Okonkwo...But if they thought these things they kept them within themselves. The egwugwu with the springy walk was one of the dead fathers of the clan."

5. Maskers appear on important holidays--including harvests and days devoted to particular gods-- burials, and to settle social problems or strife Maskers perform ritual dances representing the occasions on which they appear In Nigeria today, maskers still perform on holidays, including Christmas.

6. "Their leader was called Evil Forest. Smoke poured out of his head." Maskers embodying evil spirits will chase villagers with machetes or torches Female masks--especially maiden masks--will dance and charm onlookers Women and children come out to watch female masks but will hide from male masks Maiden mask, worn by a man but watched by women and children

7. Discussion Questions 1. What role do the egwugwu play in Chapter 10? 2. Based on what you know of Ibo culture, why do you think masks are only worn by men? 3. Why do you think the spirits of women are honored with masks? What does this tell us about the values of Ibo society?