African Literature

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What is African literature about?

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African literature reflects the experiences, thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and values of African people.

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What are the key features of African prose?

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African prose often narrates social memories, rules, and history, and centers on people, animals, and histories.

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What is a griot?

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A griot is a learned storyteller, poet, performer, and historian in West Africa who has been passing down oral culture for over 4,000 years.

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What are the two prominent oral traditions in Africa?

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1. Dilemma tale - a moral tale without a definite ending that invites audience judgment. 2. Chain tale - a formulaic story with repeating dialogue or actions.

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What is the significance of storytelling in African culture?

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Storytelling is a communal experience that enriches culture, teaches codes of conduct, and maintains social order.

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What are the characteristics of traditional African music?

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1. Polyrhythmic - complex, interlocking rhythms. 2. Call and response - a chorus repeats a lead singer's words.

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What are the major themes in modern African literature?

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1. Clash between Africa's past and present. 2. Clash between tradition and modernity. 3. Clash between indigenous and foreign influences.

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Name a famous African epic from the precolonial era.

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The Epic of Sundiata.

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Who is Chinua Achebe and what is his notable work?

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Chinua Achebe is a Nigerian author known for his novel 'Things Fall Apart,' regarded as one of the most influential African novels.

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What impact did colonialism have on African literature?

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Colonialism introduced European languages and styles, influencing modern African literature while also leading to a struggle for national identity.