Doctoral Degrees (DLLS)

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Browsing Doctoral Degrees (DLLS) by Subject "East African fiction (English)"

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    Neo-colonial elitism and its influence in Kenya: A case study of Ngugi wa Thiong'o's petals of blood, Devil on the cross and Matigari
    (University of Namibia, 2018) Sitwala, Josephine Ntelamo
    This study is an analysis of Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s portrayal of neo-colonial elitism and its influence in Kenya in his postcolonial novels, Petals of Blood (1977), Devil on the Cross (1982a) and Matigari (1989). The study employed a content analysis approach where the three novels were read and studied in depth before emerging themes, relating to neo-colonial elitism in Kenya, were unpacked. The analysis was informed by two theoretical frameworks, namely the Postcolonial and Marxist literary theories. The Postcolonial theory, as used in this context, deals with literature produced in countries that were once colonies of other countries. This theory assisted in examining the relationship between the colonisers, the British, and the Kenyan elite in the new government. The Marxist literary theory postulates that emancipation of the masses from exploitation, oppression, discrimination and inevitable linkage between the privileged people and the miserable ones can only come from the struggle by the exploited and disadvantaged group. The Marxist literary theory assisted in analysing how the masses are trying to defend themselves against their exploiters, the ruling elite. An example is how the ex-freedom fighter, Matigari, mobilises the workers and the masses in the search for truth and justice in Kenya, which leads to the wrath of the Government. The findings of this study show that the most persistent concern of Ngugi’s literary work is exploitation generated by colonial injustice and perpetuated through unaltered colonial structures and policies. There is a complex linkage between colonial exploitation and violations of the rights of the masses in postcolonial Kenya. Furthermore, the study revealed that there is a continuous struggle for freedom from the ruling elite by the masses. Finally, the study concluded by indicating the possibility of a new political revolution that will bring a new Kenya It can be concluded that the masses are aware of the cunning of their leaders, and they see a light at the end of their economic and social struggle. Another possible conclusion is that the people are aware of the acts of their rulers and they are planning a revolution to free themselves from the claws of the elite. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s literary works, as well as the contribution literature makes in conscientising the masses regarding their plight. It, furthermore, offers possible solutions to their political and socio-economic woes, not only in Kenya, but also elsewhere in the world.