Masterpieces of World Literature

About this course

The course examines Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart and Tsitsi Dangarembga’s Nervous Conditions as works often discussed within African and world literature. Alongside close reading, participants will consider how literary “masterpieces” are defined and the challenges of comparing texts from different historical, national and linguistic contexts. Teaching combines tutor presentations, whole-class discussion, small-group activities and analysis of extracts. Topics include language, colonialism, gender, change and modernity, with attention to Nigerian and Zimbabwean contexts.

What you'll learn

• Analyse key themes and debates in Things Fall Apart and Nervous Conditions
• Identify literary and historical contexts for selected African and world literature of the twentieth century
• Discuss how language, colonialism, gender and representations of change shape readings of the two novels
• Evaluate some of the ideas and assumptions involved in describing texts as literary masterpieces

Is this course right for you?

This beginner-level course is intended for learners with no previous literature study or specialist knowledge. Participation involves reading and discussing texts through presentations, group discussion, small-group activities and close analysis. Reading both novels beforehand is recommended but not compulsory, as extracts are provided in class.

• No prior experience or knowledge is required
• The course includes collaborative discussion and small-group activities
• Some topics may be sensitive and require respectful participation in class discussions
• Learners who can read both novels beforehand may gain more from the sessions

Before you go

• Extracts from the novels are provided for reading and discussion during the class
• Participants may buy or borrow copies of Things Fall Apart and Nervous Conditions to read beforehand or bring with them, but this is not compulsory