The Power of Women in War and Adversity: A Dramatic Discourse of Duro Ladipo's MOREMI

The legend of Moremi Ajasoro, one of the most celebrated figures in Yoruba history and mythology,
exemplifies female agency, sacrifice, and transformative leadership. This paper examines the dramatic
representation of Moremi, particularly in Duro Ladipo's play Moremi, analyzing how her character embodies
the power of women in times of war and adversity. Through the lenses of feminist theory, Yoruba cosmology,
and performance studies, the analysis demonstrates how Moremi challenges conventional patriarchal
narratives by asserting intellectual, spiritual, and political authority in a male-dominated society. The study
situates Moremi within her historical and cultural context, compares her with other iconic female figures in
drama and history, and reflects on the enduring relevance of her story in contemporary discourse on gender,
leadership, and cultural identity. The findings reveal that Moremi's strategic thinking, emotional resilience,
and unwavering commitment to communal welfare offer a multifaceted portrait of feminine power that
transcends temporal and cultural boundaries, positioning her as both a historical heroine and a dramatic
archetype of transformative female leadership.