Achebe’s Things fall apart: an artistic homecoming and combat spirit

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Date

2024

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Université Mouloud Mammeri Tizi Ouzou

Abstract

This research study explored the relationship between Armah'ds novel Thebeautyful ones are not yet born (1969) and Plato's The Republic (375 BC), focusing on its use of parody to critique Nkrumah's Consciencism (1969. Drawing on Bakhtin's theory of dialogism and intertextuality, as well as Mannheim's theory of Utopia and ideology, the study aims to analyze how 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 portrayed ideologies. Using qualitative research methods such as textual analysis and literary criticism, the study examined instances of stylization, intertextual references, and satirical elements in Armah's work. The findings highlighted the successful incorporation of Plato's The Republic, shedding light on the intertextual connections and the limitations 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. This research contributed to our understanding of dialogism, intertextuality, and ideology in African literature, providing valuable insights for scholars interested in postcolonial studies, African literature, and intertextual analysis. It established a foundation for further exploration of dialogical relationships, intertextuality, and ideological critique, opening avenues for future studies on the influence of literary traditions and political ideologies on societal beliefs and narratives.

Description

53p. ; (+CD-Rom)

Keywords

Dialogism, parody, ideology, Utopia

Citation

Literature and Civilization