The Mozambican Modern Ghost Story (1866-2006): The Genealogy of a Genre

This book is the first to analyze the Mozambican modern ghost story, establishing its unique characteristics, transnational context, and distinction from other supernatural traditions. It discusses why it emerged in different historical moments and how it was adapted, examining works by prominent and less prominent authors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2022
Publisher: Peter Lang International Academic Publishers

This groundbreaking work is the first to comprehensively analyze the Mozambican modern ghost story, shedding light on its distinct features, its transnational significance, and its unique position within the realm of supernatural traditions. In its comprehensive exploration, the study delves into the historical contexts in which the genre emerged, exploring how it underwent adaptations over time. Through a meticulous blend of short and close readings, this book offers a vast and comprehensive perspective, spanning nearly two centuries. It examines a diverse range of works by prominent and lesser-known Mozambican authors, including Campos de Oliveira, Orlando Mendes, Mia Couto, Ungulani Ba Ka Khosa, and Paulina Chiziane. By delving into these authors' narratives, the book explores the intricate relationship between the Mozambican modern ghost story and various historical phenomena, such as colonial capitalism, the neoliberal policies of the 1980s, and the globalized and world-literature debates of the nineteenth and twenty-first centuries. This groundbreaking work not only contributes to our understanding of the literary landscape of Mozambique but also offers valuable insights into the broader socio-political and cultural dynamics of the region. Its meticulous research and analytical approach make it a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of African literature and beyond.

Introduction:
The Mozambican modern ghost story is a genre that has gained increasing attention in recent years, both within Mozambique and internationally. This groundbreaking work is the first to comprehensively analyze this genre, shedding light on its distinct features, its transnational significance, and its unique position within the realm of supernatural traditions. In its comprehensive exploration, the study delves into the historical contexts in which the genre emerged, exploring how it underwent adaptations over time. Through a meticulous blend of short and close readings, this book offers a vast and comprehensive perspective, spanning nearly two centuries. It examines a diverse range of works by prominent and lesser-known Mozambican authors, including Campos de Oliveira, Orlando Mendes, Mia Couto, Ungulani Ba Ka Khosa, and Paulina Chiziane. By delving into these authors' narratives, the book explores the intricate relationship between the Mozambican modern ghost story and various historical phenomena, such as colonial capitalism, the neoliberal policies of the 1980s, and the globalized and world-literature debates of the nineteenth and twenty-first centuries. This groundbreaking work not only contributes to our understanding of the literary landscape of Mozambique but also offers valuable insights into the broader socio-political and cultural dynamics of the region. Its meticulous research and analytical approach make it a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of African literature and beyond.

Historical Context:
The Mozambican modern ghost story emerged in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, coinciding with the period of colonialism and the rise of capitalism in the region. The genre was influenced by a range of factors, including the cultural traditions of the indigenous communities, the impact of European colonization, and the social and economic changes brought about by the colonial era. One of the key characteristics of the Mozambican modern ghost story is its focus on the supernatural and the occult. The stories often feature characters who are possessed by spirits, haunted by ghosts, or plagued by otherworldly forces. This emphasis on the supernatural is a reflection of the traditional beliefs and practices of the indigenous communities, which were deeply intertwined with the natural world and the spiritual realm. Another notable feature of the Mozambican modern ghost story is its transnational significance. The stories often transcend national boundaries, exploring themes of migration, displacement, and cultural hybridity. The characters in these stories often find themselves in situations where they are forced to leave their homes and communities, seeking refuge in unfamiliar places. This transnational aspect reflects the reality of Mozambique, which has been a site of significant migration and cultural exchange throughout its history.

Adaptations and Transformations:
Over the years, the Mozambican modern ghost story has undergone numerous adaptations and transformations. As the country transitioned from colonialism to independence, the genre was adapted to reflect the changing social and political landscape. The stories became more politicized, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and the struggle for social justice. The characters in these stories often became more complex, with their motivations and actions shaped by the broader social and political context. In the 1980s, the Mozambican modern ghost story was influenced by the neoliberal policies of the government, which aimed to promote economic growth and development. The stories became more focused on the economic and social challenges faced by the characters, particularly in the urban areas. The genre also began to incorporate elements of popular culture, such as music, dance, and fashion, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of Mozambique.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Mozambican modern ghost story is a genre that has undergone significant adaptations and transformations over the years. It has emerged as a powerful tool for exploring the historical, social, and cultural complexities of Mozambique. Through its focus on the supernatural and the occult, its transnational significance, and its ability to adapt to changing social and political contexts, the genre has become a valuable contribution to the world of literature. As Mozambique continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges of the modern world, the Mozambican modern ghost story will undoubtedly continue to play an important role in shaping the country's cultural identity and narrative.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789975413
Edition number: New ed