This class is a chance to read some great novels that you might not otherwise hear about, and to discover a counter-canon that attempts to combat ideas about Africa produced by the West. We will also, however, be questioning the idea that there is such a thing as "the African novel." The sheer variety of these books, from lyrical visions of the pre-colonial past, to bitter allegories of corrupt post-colonial regimes and fantastical visions of the contemporary city, defies easy categorization. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: the class will involve a lot of discussion, as well as writing. There will be regular short response papers and email assignments, leading up to two longer papers. No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference given to International Studies/African Studies concentrators and prospective English majors. (Post-1900)

Hour: MUNRO