Nation-Building, Propaganda, and Literature in Francophone Africa

by Dominic Thomas

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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.

  • ISBN10 0253341574
  • ISBN13 9780253341570
  • Publish Date 19 November 2002 (first published 1 November 2002)
  • Publish Status Out of Print
  • Out of Print 12 March 2014
  • Publish Country US
  • Imprint Indiana University Press
  • Format Hardcover
  • Pages 296
  • Language English