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CS92PROD
After Achebe: Contemporary African Writing

ENGL 223
Spring 2017
Section: 01  
Course Cluster: African Studies, African Studies Minor

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 2003 novel, PURPLE HIBISCUS, summons Chinua Achebe, the "grandfather of African literature," in its opening line: "Things started to fall apart at home when my brother, Jaja, did not go to communion," and the narrator of NoViolet Bulawayo's 2013 WE NEED NEW NAMES consistently refers to that novel's title as well. While Achebe remains a formative influence on many contemporary African writers, the central preoccupations of African literature have shifted considerably in recent years. This class will consider recent topics animating the field. This may include debates about Afropolitanism, the role of publication houses and prize committees in the canonization and circulation of texts, African-language literature, and the position of African literature vis-à-vis world literature. Readings will be chosen from among the newest novels and short stories in publication.
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: HA ENGL
Course Format: Lecture / DiscussionGrading Mode: Graded
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Major Requirement for: (AFST-MN)(ENGL)(ENGL-Literature)
Past Enrollment Probability: 75% - 89%

Last Updated on MAR-28-2024
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