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UNIVERSIDADE LICUNGO

FACULTY OF LETTERS AND HUMANITY

DEGREE IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING

MARTINS TEODÓSIO SOTO

CONCEPTS OF LITERATURE BY EAGLETON AND

AFRICAN LITERATURE

QUELIMANE

2023
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MARTINS TEODÓSIO SOTO

CONCEPTS OF LITERATURE BY EAGLETON AND AFRICAN

LITERATURE

Assignment to be submitted to Introduction of

Literature, Faculty of Letters and Humanity as a
partial requirement of evaluation, under the
guidance of tutor Antunes Alexandre Tomás
Jaime.

QUELIMANE

2023
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Table of Contents

1. Introduction................................................................................................................4

1.2. Objectives:..............................................................................................................4

1.2.1. General objetcive.............................................................................................4

1.2.2 Specific objectives:...........................................................................................4

2. Concepts of of literature by Eagleton............................................................................5

2.1. Flows on the concepts of literature by Eagleton.....................................................6

3. Concepts of African literature.......................................................................................6

4. The difference of Eagleton concepts of literature from African Literature...................8

5. Conclusion...................................................................................................................10

6. Bibliography............................................................................................................................11
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1. Introduction

Terry Eagleton is a British literary theorist, critic, and novelist. He is known for his work on
the relationship between literature and ideology, and for his accessible and engaging style of
writing. He provides an overview of the main concepts of literary theory. He begins by
defining literature as "writing which has achieved a certain valued status". This definition is
deliberately broad, as Eagleton wants to avoid excluding any works that might be considered
literature by different people. Eagleton then goes on to discuss the different ways in which
literature can be studied. Literature as a form of language,as ideology, as politics and
pleasure.

African literature is a vast and diverse field, encompassing a wide range of genres, styles, and
traditions. It is a literature that is constantly evolving, reflecting the changing social, political,
and cultural landscape of Africa.Irele and Gikandi (2007)

There are three main periods to divide African literature such as: the pre-colonial period,
the colonial period and the post-colonial period.

1.2. Objectives:

1.2.1. General objetcive

To challenge the reader's beliefs and assumptions.

1.2.2 Specific objectives:

To give voice to the African experience and to challenge stereotypes about Africa.

To explore the history and culture of Africa.

To promote African unity and identity.

To differentiate European concepts of literature from African literature.

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2. Concepts of of literature by Eagleton

Eagleton defines literature in diverse aspects as follows:

Literature as a form of language: Eagleton argues that literature is not simply a way of
communicating information. It is a way of using language to create meaning and to explore
the human experience. Literature uses words in a way that is different from everyday speech.
It often uses figurative language, such as metaphor and simile, to create vivid images and to
evoke emotions.

Literature as ideology: Eagleton argues that literature is never ideologically neutral. It

always reflects the values and beliefs of the society in which it is produced. For example, a
novel written in the 19th century might reflect the values of Victorian society, such as the
importance of family and duty.

Literature as politics: Eagleton argues that literature can be used to challenge or reinforce
the status quo. A novel that exposes the exploitation of workers, for example, might be seen
as a political work. On the other hand, a novel that celebrates the wealth and privilege of the
ruling class might be seen as a work that reinforces the status quo.

Literature as pleasure: Eagleton argues that literature can give us pleasure. It can entertain
us, it can make us think, and it can help us to understand ourselves and the world around us.
For example, a poem that captures the beauty of nature might give us aesthetic pleasure. A
novel that explores the complexities of human relationships might give us emotional
pleasure.

Eagleton's concepts of literature are complex and nuanced. They offer a way of
understanding literature that is both critical and engaged. His work continues to be influential
in the field of literary theory, and his concepts of literature continue to be debated and
discussed by scholars today.
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2.1. Flows on the concepts of literature by Eagleton.

Eagleton's concepts of literature can be seen as deterministic, suggesting that literature is

always ideologically motivated and political.

His work can be seen as overly critical, and some readers may find his arguments to be
unnecessarily pessimistic.

Eagleton's concepts of literature can be seen as outdated, as they do not take into account
recent developments in literary theory, such as post-modernism and deconstruction.

Eagleton's emphasis on the ideological nature of literature can also lead to a deterministic
view of literature, in which all literature is seen as being motivated by ideology. This can be
limiting, as it can prevent us from seeing the complexity and diversity of literary works.

Eagleton's emphasis on the political nature of literature can also lead to a view of literature as
being overly didactic and simplistic. This can be limiting, as it can prevent us from seeing the
complexity and ambiguity of literary works.

3. Concepts of African literature

For better understanding the differences of the concepts of literature by Eagleton and African
literature, we are going to see how African writers define their literature, the features of
African literature and literature in colonialism period.

According to Appiah and Gates (2012), African literature is a rich and diverse tradition that
has been shaped by the continent's long and complex history. It includes works that deal with
a wide range of themes, including colonialism, slavery, independence, urbanization, and
gender relations.

On the other hand, Olaniyan & Quayson (2009), highlights that African literature is a vital
and growing field, and it continues to produce new Works. They share features of African
literature as described bellow:
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Oral tradition: African literature is deeply rooted in oral tradition. Many African works of
literature, such as folktales, proverbs, and songs, were originally passed down orally from
generation to generation.

The use of symbolism: African literature often uses symbolism to convey meaning. For
example, the baobab tree is often used as a symbol of strength and resilience in African
literature.

The focus on community: African literature often focuses on the community rather than the
individual. This is because African societies are traditionally communal in nature.

The use of local languages: Many African works of literature are written in local languages.
This is important because it allows African writers to express themselves in a way that is
authentic to their culture.

Stated by Ngugi (1986), African literature is a broad term that encompasses all literature
written by Africans or about Africa. It is a diverse body of work that spans many different
genres and time periods.

There are many different ways to categorize African literature. One way is to divide it into
three broad categories:

The Pre-colonial literature: This category includes literature that was produced in Africa
before the arrival of Europeans. It includes oral traditions, such as folktales and proverbs,
passed down through stories, songs and poems as well as written works, such as poetry and.
drama. It often celebrated the history and culture of African societies, and it often featured
strong female characters.

The Colonial literature: This period refers to the time when Africa was colonized by
European powers. African literature in this period often dealt with the themes of colonialism,
oppression, and resistance. Writers such as Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka used their
work to challenge the negative stereotypes of Africa that were perpetuated by the colonial
powers.

The Post-colonial literature: This period refers to the time after the end of colonialism.
African literature in this period has grappled with the challenges of nation-building,
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economic development, and political instability. It has also explored the themes of identity,
culture, and tradition. Bill, Griffiths, and Tiffin (2002).

Okpewho, Isidore. (2007),describes some of the most famous works of African literature as
follow:

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe (Nigeria): This novel tells the story of a Nigerian
village that is disrupted by the arrival of British colonial forces.

The Palm-Wine Drinkard by Amos Tutuola (Nigeria): This novel is a fantastical tale of a
man who travels to the land of the dead in search of his palm-wine tapster.

The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta (Nigeria): This novel tells the story of a
Nigerian woman who struggles to balance her traditional values with the demands of modern
life.

So Long a Letter by Mariama Bâ (Senegal): This novel tells the story of two Senegalese
women who correspond with each other after one of them moves to the city.

Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga (Zimbabwe): This novel tells the story of a
young woman who struggles to find her place in a society that is still recovering from
colonialism.

These are just a few of the many great works of African literature. African literature is a rich
and diverse field, and it continues to grow and evolve.

4. The difference of Eagleton concepts of literature from African Literature.

Eagleton's concepts of literature and African literature differ in a number of ways.

Eagleton's concepts of literature are universalist, while African literature is often rooted in
specific cultures and traditions. Eagleton argues that literature is a universal human
phenomenon, while African literature often explores the experiences of specific African
cultures and communities.

Eagleton's concepts of literature are often focused on the political and ideological aspects of
literature, while African literature is often more concerned with the spiritual and emotional
aspects of human experience. Eagleton argues that literature can be used to challenge or
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reinforce the status quo, while African literature is often more concerned with exploring the
human condition and the search for meaning.

Eagleton's concepts of literature are often based on Western literary traditions, while African
literature is often based on African oral traditions and folktales. Eagleton's work draws on a
wide range of Western literary theory, while African literature often draws on African oral
traditions and folktales.

4.1. Examples of how Eagleton's concepts of literature differ from African literature:

Eagleton's concept of literature as a form of ideology is challenged by African literature that

celebrates traditional African values and beliefs. For example, the novel Things Fall Apart by
Chinua Achebe celebrates the traditional Igbo culture and community.

Eagleton's concept of literature as a form of politics is challenged by African literature that

does not explicitly address political issues. For example, the novel Song of Solomon by Toni
Morrison explores the themes of identity, family, and community, but does not explicitly
address political issues.

Eagleton's concept of literature as a form of language is challenged by African literature that

uses non-Western forms of language and expression. For example, the novel Things Fall
Apart by Chinua Achebe uses Igbo proverbs and idioms to create a unique and authentic
African voice.

Ultimately, the differences between Eagleton's concepts of literature and African literature
reflect the different cultural and historical contexts in which these two traditions have
emerged. Eagleton's work is rooted in the Western literary tradition, while African literature
is rooted in the African oral tradition. These different traditions have shaped the different
ways in which literature is understood and valued.
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5. Conclusion

After a study and an investigation, one may safely conclude that there is no one definition of
literature that is universally accepted. It is constantly changing, and that it is influenced by
the historical context, the social and political circumstances, and the individual reader's
interpretation.

Eagleton also argues that literary theory is not a fixed body of knowledge, but is constantly
evolving as new works of literature are written and new critical approaches are developed.
He believes that literary theory should be used to help us understand and appreciate
literature, and to challenge our assumptions about the world.

African literature is a powerful tool for social change. It can be used to raise awareness of
important issues, to challenge stereotypes, and to promote understanding and tolerance.
African literature is a source of pride and inspiration for Africans. It helps them to connect
with their roots and to celebrate their culture. African literature is a valuable resource for
scholars and students. It provides insights into African history, culture, and society. African
literature is a growing field. More and more African writers are being published, and their
work is being translated into other languages.

African literature is often rooted in oral traditions and folktales, while Eagleton's concepts of
literature are based on Western literary traditions. However, both traditions have been
influenced by each other in recent years. African writers are increasingly using Western
literary forms to tell their stories, and Western scholars are paying more attention to African
literature.
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6. Bibliography

APPIAH. A, & GATES. H. (2012), 500 years of black thought, 1st edition, Basic Civitas
Book.

BILL, A, GRIFFITHS, G, & TIFFIN H. (2002), The Empire Writes Back: Theory and
Practice in Post-colonial Literatures. 2nd ed. London: Routledge.

EAGLETON, T. (2003), Literary Theory: An Introduction, 2nd ed, Minnesota Press,

Blackwell.

IRELE. A, & GIKANDI.S. (2007), The African Imagination: Literature in Africa, 1st edition,
Oxford Press.

NGUGI. (1986), Decolonizing the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature.
London: James Currey,.

OKPEWHO, I. (2007), African Literature: An Anthology of Criticism and Theory. Oxford,

James Currey.

OLANIYAN.T, QUAYSON. A. (2009), African literature: An Anthology of Criticism and

Theory, 1st edition, London, Blackwell.