Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Challenging Hierarchies explores the provocative and compelling work of African authors, from the writing of eighteenth-century social critic Ottobah Cugoano to that of contemporary novelists Chinua Achebe, Tsitsi Dangarembga and Ben Okri. The book focuses on challenges to colonial and neo-colonial oppression, with a special emphasis on African feminism and the work of women writers. Contributors range from renowned authors such as Ama Ata Aidoo and Micere Mugo to innovative literary critics like Obioma Nnaemeka and Vincent Odamiten. Combining criticism, fiction, and creative autobiography, Challenging Hierarchies reflects the vital spirit of African literature and literary studies today.
Table of Contents
The African woman writer as "killjoy" -- A critical debate on Achebe's depiction of women -- Eurocentric challenges to colonialsim -- Afrocentric challenges to colonial and postcolonial hegemony -- Envisioning successful challenges.