Nation-Building, Propaganda, and Literature in Francophone Africa - Softcover

Thomas, Dominic

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0253215544 ISBN 13: 9780253215543

Publisher: Indiana University Press, 2002

Synopsis

What characterizes the relationship between literature and the state? Should literature serve the needs of the state by constructing national consciousness, espousing state propaganda, and molding good citizens? Or should it be dedicated to a different kind of creative social endeavor? In this important book about literature and the politics of nation-building, Dominic Thomas assesses the contributions of Francophone African writers whose works have played a key role in the recent transition to democracy in the Congo. Exploring the works of Sony Labou Tansi, Henri Lopes, and Emmanuel Dongala, among others, Thomas highlights writers intimately involved with government and politics―whether in support of the state’s vision or with the intention of articulating a more open view of citizens and society. Focusing on themes such as collaboration, reconciliation, identity, history, and memory, Nation-Building, Propaganda, and Literature in Francophone Africa elaborates a broader understanding of the circumstances of African colonization, modern African nation-state formation, and the complex cultural dynamics at work in Africa since independence.

About this title

Review:

. . . Thomas's book is bound to open new vistas of inquiry . . . Recommended. June 2003 Source: Choice

From the Author:

Dominic Thomas is Assistant Professor in the Department of French and Francophone Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles.

About this edition

• Publisher: Indiana University Press
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0253215544
• ISBN 13: 9780253215543
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 296