The platonic inspiration of Afrotopia in The beautyful ones are not yet born
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Date
2022
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Université Mouloud Mammeri
Abstract
This research explored the relationship between Armah's novel The beautyful ones are not yet born (1969) and Plato's The republic (375 BC), focusing on its use of parody to critique Nkrumah's Consciencism (1964). Drawing on Bakhtin's theory of dialogism, as well as Mannheim's theory of Utopia and Ideology, the study aimed to analyze the way Armah incorporated elements from Plato's The republic and employed parody to critique Nkrumah's ideology while considering the influence of social classes on the ideologies he portrayed in his novel. Using research methods such as textual analysis and literary criticism, the study examined instances of stylization, intertextual references, and satirical elements in Armah's work. This research contributed to our understanding of dialogism and ideology in African literature, providing valuable insights for scholars interested in postcolonial studies and political theory. It established a foundation for further exploration of dialogical relationships and ideological critique, opening avenues for future studies on the influence of literary traditions and political ideologies on societal beliefs and narratives. The findings highlighted the successful incorporation of Plato's The republic, shedding light on the dialogical connections and the limitations identified by Armah of Nkrumah's Consciencism. Additionally, the analysis revealed that the ideologies depicted in Armah's book are shaped by the social classes present in the narrative, emphasizing the role of social dynamics in shaping belief systems and power structures
Description
59 p. ; 30 cm. (+ CD-Rom)
Keywords
Dialogism, Ideology, Parody, Social class, Utopia
Citation
Literature and Civilization