African Philosophical and Literary Possibilities: Re-reading the Canon

The book explores the cross-referential, interdisciplinary relationships between African literature and African philosophy, arguing that they share overlapping concerns and aspirations. It examines the intersectional canons of these disciplines to determine their intra-continental epistemological transformative possibilities within broader, global societal explorations of decolonization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

African Philosophical and Literary Possibilities: Re-reading the Canon, edited by Aretha Phiri, delves into the intricate cross-referential, interdisciplinary connections between African literature and African philosophy. The contributors engage in their writings within the broader context of a renewed interest in and concerns surrounding epistemological decolonization, aiming to advance African scholarly transformation. This volume posits that African philosophy and literature, in their convergent ideological and imaginative endeavors to articulate an African conditionality, share overlapping concerns and aspirations. By examining the intersectional canons of these disciplines, this book aims to determine their intra-continental epistemological transformative possibilities within the broader societal explorations of the current moment of decolonization.

While much of the scholarship on African philosophy has centered on addressing issues related to the postcolonial task of African self-assertion in the face of or against Euro-modernist hegemony, this innovative book project shifts the focus and broadens the scope beyond merely engaging with the global North. It maps out how philosophy and literature can be viewed as mutually enriching disciplines within and for Africa.

Through a series of insightful essays, the book explores the ways in which African philosophy and literature engage with each other, shedding light on their shared concerns and aspirations. It highlights the ways in which these disciplines can contribute to the decolonization process by challenging dominant narratives, promoting alternative perspectives, and fostering a deeper understanding of African experiences and identities.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of imagination in shaping African philosophical and literary discourse. The contributors argue that imagination plays a vital role in challenging oppressive structures and promoting alternative visions of the African continent. By engaging with the imaginative capacities of philosophy and literature, the book seeks to foster a sense of hope and possibility for a decolonized future.

Another important aspect of the book is its commitment to interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration. The contributors draw on a range of disciplines, including philosophy, literature, cultural studies, and history, to explore the complex relationships between African philosophy and literature. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand and enables a richer analysis of the interconnections between these disciplines.

In conclusion, African Philosophical and Literary Possibilities: Re-reading the Canon is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of African studies. By exploring the cross-referential, interdisciplinary connections between African philosophy and literature, the book offers a fresh perspective on the ways in which these disciplines can contribute to the decolonization process. It highlights the importance of imagination, interdisciplinary dialogue, and collaboration in shaping African philosophical and literary discourse and promotes a sense of hope and possibility for a decolonized future.

Weight: 249g
Dimension: 218 x 155 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498571265