Unit 23: Postwar and Post-Colonial Literature, 1945–1968—Chinua Achebe and Naguib Mahfouz Flashcards
Who was Chinua Achebe?
A: Chinua Achebe (1930–2013) was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic, best known for his novel Things Fall Apart (1958), which explores the effects of colonialism on African culture and identity. Achebe’s work emphasizes the complexities of African life and challenges Western stereotypes of Africa. He is considered a key figure in postcolonial literature.
How does Achebe’s approach to literature differ from the “art for art’s sake” tradition in Europe?
A: Achebe’s approach emphasizes the social and political responsibilities of literature, aiming to address colonialism, cultural identity, and societal issues in Africa. In contrast, the “art for art’s sake” tradition prioritizes aesthetic value and artistic expression over social or political messages, often detaching art from real-world concerns.
How does the use of naming in “Chike’s School Days” represent the inherent challenges of post-colonial society?
A: In “Chike’s School Days,” naming reflects the tension between traditional Igbo culture and colonial influences. Names often signify social status and cultural identity, highlighting divisions and the struggle for self-definition in a post-colonial context. The contrast between colonial names and indigenous ones underscores the challenges of navigating cultural identity and authority in a society grappling with colonial legacy and loss of tradition.
In what ways do generational change and post-colonial history intersect in “Chike’s School Days”?
A: In “Chike’s School Days,” generational change is illustrated through Chike’s experiences, reflecting the shift from traditional Igbo values to colonial influences. Chike represents a new generation caught between these two worlds, as he is exposed to English education and culture while navigating the expectations of his community. This intersection highlights the complexities of identity, belonging, and the struggle to reconcile cultural heritage with the realities of a post-colonial society, where older generations face challenges adapting to colonial changes.
How might you contrast “Chike’s School Days” with Douglass’s Narrative?
Chike’s School Days” focuses on the effects of colonialism in Nigeria, depicting Chike’s struggle with cultural identity amid the clash between traditional Igbo values and British influences. In contrast, Frederick Douglass’s Narrative centers on the brutal realities of slavery in America, emphasizing the quest for freedom and self-identity. While both works explore themes of identity and cultural conflict, Achebe highlights the complexities of post-colonial society and the nuances of generational change, whereas Douglass focuses on the stark fight against oppression and the pursuit of emancipation.
