USSY 285D - The World of African Literature

Institution:

Case Western Reserve University

Subject:

Description:

In this seminar, we will look at how a diverse number of African writers have responded, in both form and content, to three periods in Africa's literary history: the 1960s, or the decolonization period, which produced nationalist literature; the 1970s and 1980s, or the neocolonial period, which produced revolutionary novels; and the 1990s through the present, a period producing literature that contends with globalization. In an attempt to answer the riddle of what makes an African novel African, we shall grapple with fundamental questions concerning the origin of the novel; how it came to Africa; African literary traditions; and the language of the African novel. We will also use African literature to explore universal questions about politics and literature: What is a protest novel? What is the role of the writer and of art in society? The goal of the seminar is to increase your appreciation of African literature and literature in general, and at the same time sharpen your analytical, critical, oral and written skills. You will be expected to lead discussions, engage in peer critiques and, through scholarly essays, engage African literature. Prereq: Passing letter grade in a 100 level first year seminar in USFS, FSSY, FSCC, FSNA, FSSO or FSCS. Prereq or Coreq: FSTS 100

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.case.edu

Phone Number:

(216) 368-2000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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