In what way does the story ‘Marriage is a Private affair’ reflect on the ignorance and superstitions of the Ibo people?

The tensions that arise from the conflict between tradition and modernity is another central theme in "Marriage is a Private Affair." Explored overtly through the conflict between arranged marriage and marrying for love, as well as the juxtaposition between city life and rural life, the theme of tradition vs. modernity also arises within the dynamics of Okeke's village. Despite his obstinate rejection of his son's decision to marry for love, Okeke is considered more modern than his fellow villagers. When other men discuss the option of hiring a herbalist to brew a concoction that could keep Nnaemeka's heart under his father's control, Okeke rejects the idea, as he is "known to be obstinately ahead of his more superstitious neighbours in these matters." However, Okeke is unaware of the hypocrisy of having a steadfast adherence to the tradition of arranged marriage while easily dismissing the concept of traditional medicine. Nene and Nnaemeka also hold a mix of traditional and modern values. While they are willing to disobey Okeke in the matter of love and marriage, they cannot reject him in the way he rejects them, continuing to reach out to him in the tradition of honoring one's elders.