Includes bibliographical references (p. [225]-296) and index.

The introduction : unspoken, blame the mouth; unheard, blame the ear -- Oge Nwatakili : the time of childhood, ca. 1880-1895 -- Mgbakpu Ahebi : exile in Igalaland, ca. 1895-1916 -- Performing masculinities : homecoming--and she becomes a man, ca. 1916-1948 -- Inside King Ahebi's palace, ca. 1916-1948 -- Mastering masculinities : Ekpe Ahebi masquerade, the final insult, ca. 1931-1948 -- The conclusion : Ahebi today : the works that we do are the things by which we are remembered -- Appendix: Select criminal and civil cases in Nsukka Division, 1921-1935 -- Glossary of Enugu-Ezike chronological terms -- Glossary of Igbo, Igala, and Akpoto words.

Nwando Achebe presents the fascinating history of an Igbo woman, Ahebi Ugbabe, who became king in colonial Nigeria. Ugbabe was exiled from Igboland, became a prostitute, traveled widely, and learned to speak many languages. She became a close companion of Nigerian Igala kings and the British officers who supported her claim to the office of headman, warrant chief, and later, king. In this unique biography, Achebe traces the roots of Ugbabe's rise to fame and fortune. While providing critical perspectives on women, gender, sex and sexuality, and the colonial encounter, she also considers how it was possible for this woman to take on the office and responsibilities of a traditionally male role.