Language, Culture And Decolonisation

Language, Culture, and Decolonization explores the importance of language in decoloniality, arguing that colonialism controls history, language, and culture, and denigrates them. It examines classic and contemporary arguments for the importance of indigenous languages in cultural formation and expression, and how the colonizer can promote indigenous cultures and languages to control potential political resistance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 370 pages
Publication date: 22 March 2022
Publisher: HSRC Press

Language, Culture, and Decolonisation delves into the profound significance of language in the process of decolonisation, taking a global perspective. It explores the decolonisation journey from various disciplinary angles, including history, politics, philosophy, and literary studies. The title makes groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of how colonialism penetrates the very essence of colonised societies, seizing control over history, language, and culture, while simultaneously demeaning them. The edited volume examines both classic and contemporary arguments that advocate for the importance of indigenous languages, such as creole, in shaping one's identity, fostering cultural expression, and developing unique cultural ways of reading. It also challenges arguments that advocate for the appropriation and subversion of the language of the coloniser.

For instance, French and English emerged as the common languages of a prominent pan-African intelligentsia. Furthermore, the book sheds light on how colonisers can employ the promotion of indigenous cultures and languages as a means to diffuse and control potential political resistance, as exemplified by the cases of the South African government and the Zulu nation.

Through its comprehensive exploration, Language, Culture, and Decolonisation offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between language, culture, and the process of decolonisation, contributing to a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles and achievements of societies seeking to reclaim their identities and narratives.

Weight: 500g
ISBN-13: 9780796926128