Culture, Language and Evolution of African Literature

Abstract

This paper: culture, Language and Evolution of African Literature has its main thrust in explaining what Literature as a field of study is all about, together with its usefulness to mankind. This usefulness has to do with empowering the reader language-wise and imparting to him a civilizing value, thus making him a better person to function in human environment socially morally and intellectually. This is against the backdrop of racial denigration of African Literature by imperialist critics who deny it having universalism in terms of concept. This is in the spirit of Western Eurocentricism which regards every idea that does not originate from them as not having universalism in content. This paper condemns this unwholesome attitude of the Western Europe using the views of African writers and argues that universalism can emanate from anywhere in the globe. The paper also indicates that only an open-minded approach to Literature from all parts of the world can reveal ideas with universal applicability, not only works from Western Europe. Secondly, Literature is seen as a potent tool for enriching human experience and fostering universal truths. Also, Literature can be appreciated for the intrinsic aesthetic values of their places of origination. This paper postulates in summation that Literature in a potent means of enhancing universal understanding and cultural globalization both now and in the future, and mankind will be better off with it. In conclusion, the paper submits that only an open-minded approach to Literature involving a willingness to accept the truths in the literary works being considered (even if such truths run counter to one's preconceived ideas), a character nurtured by the study of Literature, will enrich mankind intellectually and morally.