ENG 3107 Writing Africa: Colonial/Post- Colonial Discourse and African Literature
The end of colonialism in the 20th Century has in recent years given rise to studies devoted to re-examining the history, politics, language, and literary representations of the colonial era. Much of this work is coming from writers in the ex-colonies who are attempting to re-define themselves within the western canon. This class will examine African writers as they attempt to grapple with the history of European representation of Africa. We will examine some of the most recent debates such as African versus European languages, Negritude, Pan-Africanism, gender, identity and the current ethnic problems that have led to genocide in some areas. Readings will include: Emmanuel Dongala146s Fire of Origins, Ferdinand Oyono146s The Old Man and the Medal, Ama Ata Aido146s Our Sister Killjoy, Ousman Sembene146s God146s Bits of Wood, Philip Gourevitch146s We wish to Inform you that Tomorrow we will be Killed with our Families: Stories from Rwanda.
LA
Notes
Prerequisite: Completion of one 1000 level and one 2000 level English course.