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ENG863Arts3 Unitsintermediate

Studies In Written African Literature

This course is a 3-unit exploration of written African drama, designed to familiarize students with the works of major playwrights in contemporary African literature. It examines selected dramatists from West, East, and South Africa, focusing on themes, plot, language, and characterization. Students will study fourteen play texts, analyzing how these works reflect the lives, cultures, and relevant issues of their societies. The course aims to sharpen students' critical insight and appreciation of African drama's role in reflecting and shaping cultural identity.

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150h
Study Time
13
Weeks
12h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
African dramaplaywrightsthemescharacterizationcultural identity

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Cultural identity

2

Colonialism

3

Post-colonialism

4

Gender roles

5

Tradition vs. modernity

6

Political oppression

Total Topics6 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Cultural critic

Apply your skills in this growing field

Literary analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Drama teacher

Apply your skills in this growing field

Play director

Apply your skills in this growing field

Cultural officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

EducationArts and CultureMedia and EntertainmentResearch

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

3h

Unit 1: Course Outline for ENG 863: Studies in Written African Literature

3 study hours
  • Read Unit 1 introduction to African drama.
  • Understand the characteristics of written African drama from South, West, and East Africa.
  • Complete self-assessment exercises.
Week
2

Module 2:

4h

Unit 2: The Chattering and the Song

4 study hours
  • Read 'The Chattering and the Song' by Femi Osofisan.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
3

Module 2:

4h

Unit 2: Morontudun

4 study hours
  • Read 'Morontudun' by Femi Osofisan.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
4

Module 3:

4h

Unit 3: The Strong Breed

4 study hours
  • Read 'The Strong Breed' by Wole Soyinka.
  • Analyze the plot, characterization, and language.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
5

Module 3:

4h

Unit 3: Death and the King's Horseman

4 study hours
  • Read 'Death and the King's Horseman' by Wole Soyinka.
  • Analyze the plot, characterization, and language.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
6

Module 4:

5h

Unit 4: Man Talk, Woman Talk

5 study hours
  • Study the themes in modern African drama.
  • Read 'Man Talk, Woman Talk' by Ola Rotimi.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
7

Module 4:

4h

Unit 4: Kurunmi

4 study hours
  • Read 'Kurunmi' by Ola Rotimi.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
8

Module 5:

4h

Unit 5: Wedlock of the Gods

4 study hours
  • Read 'Wedlock of the Gods' by Zulu Sofola.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
9

Module 5:

4h

Unit 5: King Emene

4 study hours
  • Read 'King Emene' by Zulu Sofola.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
10

Module 6:

4h

Unit 6: The Broken Calabash

4 study hours
  • Read 'The Broken Calabash' by Tess Onwueme.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and dramatic techniques.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
11

Module 6:

4h

Unit 6: The Desert Encroaches

4 study hours
  • Read 'The Desert Encroaches' by Tess Onwueme.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and dramatic techniques.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
12

Module 7:

8h

Unit 7: Anowa

4 study hours
  • Read 'Anowa' by Ama Ata Aidoo.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.

Unit 7: The Dilemma of a Ghost

4 study hours
  • Read 'The Dilemma of a Ghost' by Ama Ata Aidoo.
  • Analyze the plot, language, and characterization.
  • Complete the tutor-marked assignment.
Week
13

Final Revision

6h

Units 1-7: Final Revision

6 study hours
  • Review all course materials and tutor-marked assignments.
  • Prepare for the final examination.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all assigned play texts, focusing on plot, character, and themes.

2

Analyze the historical and cultural context of each play.

3

Practice essay questions on key themes and playwrights.

4

Create character maps for each play to understand relationships and motivations.

5

Review all tutor-marked assignments and feedback.

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