AFST 324 - African History through Film, Literature, and Music

(Same as HIST 324.) This course explores the relationship between the genres of film, literature, and music and the history of Sub-Saharan Africa. This course will approach these genres in three ways: as primary sources in the study of modern Africa; as forms that have framed the continent in particular ways over time, shaping both the ‘colonial gaze’ and African identities; and as historical forces, which have been taken up as tools of protest, activism, and solidarity. Drawing on a range of artistic and scholarly works, discussions will intersect with several historical topics and themes, including imperialism, colonialism, the ‘civilizing mission’ and scientific racism, religious change, gender and the family, labor migration and urbanization, the two world wars, African nationalism, decolonization, and postcolonial trajectories. Special emphasis will be placed on the ways in which African artists have used - and continue to use - creative genres to reclaim Africa’s past while also imagining new futures. Letter grade with Pass/No Pass option. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits