Scripting Shame in African Literature

Sub-Saharan African literature frequently expresses the underlying emotion of shame, yet studies often overlook this topic in favor of other themes such as independence and postcolonialism. This book explores how shame functions as a central element in the mutual constitution of subject and community in African literature, highlighting the significance of African conceptions of shame that may be overlooked by Western definitions and theories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2024
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Shame is a pervasive and complex emotion that permeates the rich tapestry of sub-Saharan African literature. Despite its prevalence, studies in this field often overlook this crucial aspect, instead privileging a narrow focus on the struggle for independence and the postcolonial context. This exploration encompasses the quest for individual, national, and ethnic identities, as well as the examination of corruption, evolving gender roles, and the conflicts between tradition and modernity.

While shame may seem at odds with these broader narratives, it in fact serves as a fundamental thread that connects them. This book delves into the various expressions of shame found in sub-Saharan African literature, highlighting how these diverse literary representations underscore the profound role that shame plays in shaping the mutual constitution of individuals and communities on the continent.

It is important to note that the study of shame has been predominantly influenced by Western definitions and theories. However, this book seeks to emphasize the centrality of African conceptions of shame, recognizing that notions of Western subjectivity may fail to fully capture the depth and complexity of this emotion.

Within the pages of this book, readers will embark on a journey that explores the multifaceted manifestations of shame in sub-Saharan African literature. From the poignant portrayal of personal shame in works such as Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" to the societal implications of communal shame in Wole Soyinka's "Death and the King's Horseman," the book offers a comprehensive examination of the ways in which shame shapes individuals, relationships, and communities.

Moreover, the book highlights the ways in which shame intersects with other powerful emotions such as pride, guilt, and embarrassment. It explores how these emotions interplay and influence one another, creating a rich tapestry of human experiences. Through its analysis, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics of power, identity, and social norms that shape the lives of individuals and communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of African studies by exploring the pervasive and complex emotion of shame in sub-Saharan African literature. It emphasizes the centrality of African conceptions of shame, challenging Western definitions and theories. By delving into the various expressions of shame, the book provides a deeper understanding of the human experience on the continent and its impact on society. This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex tapestry of sub-Saharan African culture.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802075380