Studies in African Literature (369-0-20)

Topic

African Cities

Instructors

Evan M Mwangi

Meeting Info

University Hall 218: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Africa is usually seen in terms of rural settlements as depicted in such canonical works as Achebe's Things Fall Apart, Okot p'Bitek's Song Lawino, and Ngugi's The River Between. Reading the work of such writers as Marjorie O. Macgoye, Buchi Emecheta, Meja Mwangi, Phaswane Mpe, Ayi Kwei Armah, and Teju Cole, the course will discuss urban settlements and planning in Africa. Topics will include indigenous languages and urbanization; African popular culture; African modernities; precolonial African cities; disillusionment; and sexualities of the city. We'll also read theoretical and historical work by Ngugi, Kenda Mutongi, Fanon, and Achille Mbembe.

Teaching Method

Interactive lectures, debates, role-play, and small group discussions.

Evaluation Method

Two 7-page papers, weekly Canvas postings, regular self-evaluation, peer critiques, class participation, pop quizzes (ungraded), and 1-minute papers (ungraded). No final exam.

Class Attributes

Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area
SDG Sustnble Cities&Commnities