PSI 2214 - African Politics through Literature

Credits: 4
It is often difficult for Westerners to grasp the intricacies and subtlety of African politics. Literature can be used as a vehicle for discussing the difficult topics that arise in a relatively exciting and stress-free manner. African authors like Ngugi wa Thiongo, Chinua Achebe, Buchi Emecheta, and Nadine Gordimer provide historical context and local color while dealing with issue that continue to confront African governments such as the colonial encounter/ legacy, poverty/underdevelopment, the role of women, and Africa’s place in the global community. This course is designed to emphasize politics viewed through the lens of African authors, for who can better tell the stories than those who live them? The selected texts reflect both an historical and a geographical coverage of Africa. Film may be used to complement the novels.
McDaniel Plan: International Western.