Republic of the Philippines

Tarlac State University

COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION
CENTER OF DEVELOPMENT
Lucinda Campus, Tarlac City
Tel. No. (045) 493-0182; Fax No. (045) 982-0110
Re-Accredited Level IV by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities of the
Philippines (AACCUP), Inc.
______________________________________________________________________________
MODULE IN EL 112 SURVEY OF AFRO-ASIAN
LITERATURE
AFRICAN LITERATURE

SUBMITTED BY: GROUP 1

MENDOZA, ALYSSA MAE S.
TABUNO, ANGELA GRACE
YACAPIN, KENNETH
VITAL, CAMILLE
BSED ENGLISH 2-1

SUBMITTED TO:
MR. MICHAEL A. GANDOLA
LECTURER
TITLE: AFRICAN LITERATURE
INTRODUCTION:
The introduction to Afro-Asian literature provides an overview of the rich and diverse
literary tradition that emerged from the Sample literary works, major writers, and some
significant writers and writings of the period between African and Asian peoples, exploring
historical background, characteristics, genres, and forms of African Literature. In this module,
the students will be introduced to the world of African literature, and its difference from Asian
literature. And so, the historical development significant contemporary writers and their literary
genres in African literature and Asian literature.
INSTRUCTION TO THE USERS:
This module is intended for learners to understand the African literature to education,
language learning, and growth and development. The African Literature will enhance your skills
in analyzing and comprehending those literary works about the African Literature and knows
what those history, background, and literary pieces that will be analyze will enhanced your
knowledge about the literature in Africa. Exercises and a set of activities are provided to help
students comprehend and apply the lessons.

PRE-TEST: (20 ITEMS)

1. What was the narrator known for?
a) Painting captivating stories
b) Writing captivating stories
c) Singing captivating stories
d) Acting in captivating stories
2. What request did the narrator receive?
a) To write a romance novel
b) To write a mystery novel
c) To write a children's tale
d) To write a science fiction novel
3. What disrupted the narrator's peaceful existence?
a) A mysterious sound
b) A power outage
c) A thunderstorm
d) A phone call
4. What did the narrator realize about her home?
a) It was haunted
b) It was built on a gold mine
c) It was infested with pests
d) It was about to collapse
 5. What did the narrator use to protect herself?
a) Security cameras
b) A guard dog
c) A security alarm system
d) None of the above
6. Who is the most famous Arab poet?
a. Khaldun
b. Chinuna Achebes
c. Nadine Gordimer
d. Ngugi wa Thiong ‘o
7. What is the “Language of the heart”
a. Prose
b. Poetry
c. Epic
d. Tale
8. What is Africa are a literary form that explores diverse cultures, histories, and experiences?
a. Storytelling

b. Folktales

c. Novels

d. Short story

9. This is kind of genre that includes works of history, biography, autobiography, essays, journals, and
etc.?

a. Novel

b. Drama

c. Epic

d. Non-fiction

10. This is stories passed down orally, reflecting the beliefs, values, and customs of different African
societies?

a. Folktales

b. Drama

c. Non-fiction
 d. Short story

I - LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
At the end of this chapter, the students are expected to:
a. To know about the History of African Literature
b. Summarize and Analyze the Prose in African Literature
c. Distinguish Poetry in African Literature
II - CONTENT:
A. PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES:

B. DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES:

AFRICAN LITERATURE

HISTORY OF AFRICAN LITERATURE

Discussant: Mendoza, Alyssa Mae S.

African literature comprises traditional oral and written works in Afro-Asiatic and African languages,
as well as works in European languages. It is primarily characteristic of sub-Saharan cultures that have
participated in Mediterranean cultures. Examples include works in Hausa, Arabic, Geʿez, and Amharic,
as well as works in European languages from the 20th century.

Africa is the second-largest continent in the world, and there are also 3,500 African literature titles in
print in English and French alone and over 10,000 in 143 African languages. African literature has a lot of
oral and written works, and it originated in sub-Saharan and Mediterranean cultures. And their literary
works are collections of short stories, poems, songs, etc., and they are written in African languages as
well as European languages because they were adopted by the Europeans. That’s why there is also a
European language written in their literature that is influenced by African cultures. The written works in
languages back then were Hausa, Arabic, Ge'ez, and Amharic, and they wrote and explored social,
political, and personal themes. While the European languages, it was the colonial and post-colonial
periods that shaped more of the African literature, about issues of globalization, cultural identity, etc.
Those famous authors in African literature like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
explored the impact of colonialism in African societies and their struggle for their independence. It is
examined by the themes, style, and influence of African literature for them to gain more about and
understand their continent’s history, culture, and identity.
Oral and written storytelling traditions in Africa have evolved concurrently, with significant
transitional players including ancient Egyptian scribes, early Hausa and Swahili copyists, and modern
novel writers, affecting each other in various ways.

Storytelling is one of the most popular genres in Africa, and it has played an important role in their
culture and traditions for centuries. There is both written and oral storytelling on their continent, and it
evolves from their traditions that those authors make transitions for them to shape the stories told and
passed down from generations to generations. The Ancient Egyptians played a significant role in
recording and preserving their oral tradition for it to be written exactly as it is said, and this was done
through hieroglyphic writing, also known as sacred writing, which laid the foundation for the written
storytelling traditions that followed. Hausa and Swahili copyists played a crucial role in the evolution of
African storytelling as they are transcribing and copying the text in these languages, preserving, and
disseminating stories. Those modern novel writers, such as Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, influenced the evolution of storytelling even more in Africa by combining
traditional and modern storytelling literary styles.

African literature, originating from Ancient Egypt and hieroglyphs, evolved into Arabic poetry during
the Arab conquest and later merged with European culture to form a unique literary form.

African literature has a rich history back then to the Ancient Egypt centuries, wherein the hieroglyphs is
used for the communication and for them to keep the recording. The Arab conquest was spread across
Africa, where new literature was forms and emerged and particularly in poetry. That’s why many Arabic
poetry became influential, the way they are expressing their complex emotions because just like in
Philippine literature they define poetry as the language of the heart and whatever you wrote from your
heart it will have a big impact to the readers. The most famous Arab poet is Khaldun, he provided
valuable insights into their region’s literary tradition. Overtime African literature was merged with the
European influences and with European writers as they were exploring the themes of the colonialism
and cultural identity. The main focus of African literature is on oral storytelling traditions which is passed
down from generation to generations the history and their traditions. This oral tradition still continues
to influence the African literature until today, with the writers drawing on myths, legends, and folklore
to create engaging narratives.

Africa's history is marked by hardships, colonization, and slavery, leading to the formation of the
African Diaspora, a global movement against the will of millions of Africans.

Africa’s history has a complex tale of their hardships, colonization, and slavery. The Atlantic slave trade
is wherein people from Africa was trade to the America for them t be slave whether you are a man,
women, children, and it has almost 10-12 million enslaved black Africans from 16 th to 19th century. That
they brutally exploited the Africans that’s why it led to the loss of millions of lives from that trading. The
legacy of slavery still continuous to influence the African communities and it is both from the continent
and diaspora. That’s why African diaspora was emerged as the result that’s why millions of African were
scattered and displaced globally, that movement has an important role in shaping global culture,
politics, and society, fighting against oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. Even though
during African Diaspora many lives were lost this also led them to be united form them t have that
powerful force to change, fighting for their equality, their justice and human right because that is their
continent. African Diaspora as a testament to its enduring legacy.

Sub-Saharan Africa developed written literature in the 19th and early 20th centuries through
missionary efforts, building churches, language schools, translating religious texts, and enabling
Africans to write in European and indigenous languages. Understanding its complete development
requires examining beyond recent works.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Sub-Saharan Africa developed written literature through missionary
efforts. Missionaries spread Christianity, established churches and schools, and translated religious texts
into indigenous African languages. This allowed Africans to express themselves through writing and
access a wealth of written knowledge. Language schools provided literacy skills in both European and
indigenous languages, enabling Africans to write in various languages. This development played a crucial
role in preserving African cultural heritage, fostering language development, and enabling African voices
to be heard globally. Understanding the development of African literature during this period requires
examining the historical context and recognizing the contributions of missionaries to the literary
landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa.

African literature spans a wide range of genres, reflecting the continent's unique cultural traditions
and historical experiences. African literature's most popular genres include:

FOLKTALES

African folktales are traditional stories passed down orally, reflecting the beliefs, values, and customs of
different African societies. The Famous folktales include Anansi the Spider, a cunning character teaching
resourcefulness and community. These stories preserve cultural heritage and provide insights into the
history and traditions of African societies. They are not just entertainment but also a reflection of the
rich African Culture.

NOVELS

Novels in Africa are a literary form that explores diverse cultures, histories, and experiences. They use
prose to tell intricate narratives and develop complex characters, creating immersive reading
experiences. Examples include Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" and Tsitsi Dangarembga's "Nervous
Conditions." Novels in Africa also challenge conventional narratives, focusing on marginalized voices and
communities. These works want to invite the readers to begin a journey of discovery, empathy, and
understanding, for them to deeper appreciate for their continent’s diverse cultures and peoples.

SHORT STORIES

African short stories are a concise and impressive literature that contains rich cultural traditions and
storytelling techniques. They are known for their brevity, sharpness and use of the oral tradition of
storytelling. These stories often explore themes such as identity, tradition, colonialism and modernity,
offering a deeper understanding of African society and history. Their continued importance and
relevance in today's world make them a valuable and attractive literary form. An example of what it
means when a man falls from the sky by Lesley Nneka Arimah.

DRAMAS
Drama in Africa is a literary term that involves the presentation of a story through a theatrical
performance. It has a rich history and traditional forms of theater and storytelling are practiced across
the continent. Masks, believed to have spiritual powers, are used in performances to represent
characters or archetypes. Storytelling is a common part of African drama and is passed down from
generation to generation to preserve history and impart moral and ethical teachings. African playwrights
such as Wole Soyinka, Athol Fugard and Ngugi wa Thiong'o have created powerful plays that deal with
colonialism, apartheid and post-colonial identity. Näide The Court of Queens, Rotimi Johnson.

NON-FICTION

Non-fiction literature is a kind of genre that includes works of history, biography, autobiography, essays,
journals, and etc. and a lot of African writers like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, Ngugi wa Thiong'o,
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have made a big contribution to this genre. Their works are about histories,
Biographies and so on. As the global conversation about African literature expands, it is important to
recognize and celebrate these contributions.

African literature encompasses a wide range of literary forms and genres, each with its unique style,
themes, and cultural significance. Here are the 4 types of African Literature

ORAL

Oral literature, the oldest form of African literature, is a crucial component of African cultures,
preserving ancient traditions and beliefs. It includes myths, legends, folktales, and oral histories, which
are passed down through generations. Myths and legends teach moral lessons, while folktales entertain
and educate. Oral histories document the past, while oral literature reflects diverse languages and
traditions, preserving linguistic diversity and fostering pride and identity among African communities.

PRE-COLONIAL

Pre-colonial African literature is a rich collection of oral and written traditions of African societies before
European colonization. It reflects the different languages, religions and cultural practices of the
continent. Oral tradition includes epic stories, folklore, myths and legends that are passed down from
generation to generation, while written literature, such as poetry and religious texts, is created in
different languages. Religion also plays an important role in shaping these literary works that reflect the
spiritual and cultural values of people.

COLONIAL

African colonial literature, a historical work, reflects the struggles and resilience of African societies
during European colonization. The main themes are the clash of cultures, economic exploitation and
political submission. By engaging with colonial literature, readers can gain a deeper understanding of
the profound effects of colonialism on African societies.

POSTCOLONIAL

Postcolonial Literature in Africa is a collection of works by African writers that explores the complex
experiences of postcolonial African societies. It focuses on issues such as identity, culture, politics and
social inequality. These works challenge dominant narratives of colonial history and provide a platform
for marginalized voices. The main subjects are the struggle to reconcile the traditional African identity
with modern times, the conservation of cultural traditions and the criticism of power systems.
Postcolonial literature helps to better understand the impact of colonialism on African societies.

STORYTELLING OF “ONCE UPON A TIME “

Discussant: Yacapin, Kenneth

“ ONCE UPON A TIME” BY NADINE GORDIMER

1. This story can be classified as a suspenseful and cautionary tale.
2. It explores themes of fear, security, and the consequences of extreme measures taken to
protect oneself.
3. The narrative builds tension as the protagonist grapples with anxieties and the unsettling
events occurring in their neighborhood.
4. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of paranoia and the delicate balance
between safety and the loss of innocence.

AUTHOR’S IDENTITY
Nadine Gordimer - (20 November 1923 – 13 July 2014) was a South African writer and
political activist.
-Nobel Prize-winning novelist of short stories and novels on South African
society's breakdown
SUMMARY OF THE STORY
Once upon a time, in a quiet suburban neighborhood, there lived an unidentified narrator. She
was a renowned novelist, known for her captivating stories. One day, a request came her way,
asking if she would write a children's tale for an anthology. However, she declined the offer,
firmly believing that not every author should write a children's story.
As the days went by, the narrator found herself immersed in her own world, working on her
latest novel. But one fateful night, her peaceful existence was disrupted. She was awakened by a
mysterious sound echoing through her home. Anxiety gripped her as she wondered if it could be
the footsteps of a burglar.
To her dismay, the narrator realized she had no security measures in place to protect herself. Her
mind raced as she recalled recent incidents in her area - a lady slain in broad daylight and an
elderly man attacked by a temporary laborer. Fear consumed her.
However, as the night unfolded, the truth behind the unsettling sounds emerged. It turned out that
her home was built on top of a gold mine. The rocks beneath the surface shifted, causing the
house to creak and groan. The narrator breathed a sigh of relief, knowing there was no intruder.
Despite the absence of danger, sleep eluded the narrator. Seeking solace, she began to tell herself
a bedtime story. It was the tale of a loving family from an unidentified suburb. The husband and
wife shared a deep bond, and their home was filled with joy, including their son, a dog, a cat, a
reliable maid, and a traveling gardener.
To ensure their safety, the family had joined the Neighborhood Watch. A deterrent sign, bearing
the message "YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED," adorned their property. The narrator observed
that the image on the sign depicted a masked figure, making it impossible to discern their race.
Meanwhile, unrest brewed on the outskirts of the city. The narrator referred to the individuals
involved as "people of another color." The husband reassured his wife, explaining that
individuals from the townships could only access the suburbs if they were domestic employees
with proper references.
Despite the husband's reassurance, the wife's fear persisted. In an effort to ease her worries, the
husband installed an electronic intercom at their gate. The son found fascination in the intercom,
using it as a walkie-talkie during playtime with his friends.
However, even with these security measures, the family faced a new challenge. Their
mischievous cat would often trigger the alarm system by sneaking in through the boy's bedroom
window. This became a common occurrence in the neighborhood, and people grew accustomed
to the sound of the alerts.
Realizing the vulnerability of their home, the family decided to take action. They embarked on
walks with their dog and son, observing their neighbors' walls and comparing various security
options. Glass shards, spikes, and iron grilles were among the choices discussed.
Ultimately, they settled on the most intimidating choice - a razor wire security coil. Installed by a
firm called "DRAGON'S TEETH," the wire adorned the top of their wall, sending a clear
message to potential intruders. The wife couldn't help but be impressed by the menacing
appearance of their newfound protection.
Little did they know that their chosen security measure would become a double-edged sword.
Once trapped, there was no escape from the entangling blades and coils. The family had
unwittingly created a formidable barrier that could ensnare even the innocent.
One night, as the mother read the fairy tale of "Sleeping Beauty" to her son, he became inspired.
The next day, he decided to play the role of the prince, attempting to overcome the thorny bush
and reach the castle to awaken the princess with a kiss.
With determination, the young boy climbed the ladder to the wall, unaware of the danger that
awaited him. Tragically, he became entangled in the razor wire, his cries for help piercing the air.
The gardener and maid were the first to witness the heartbreaking scene.
They rushed to the boy's aid, screaming for assistance. In their desperate attempts to free him, the
gardener's hands were cut by the unforgiving wire. When the parents arrived, their hearts
shattered as they realized their efforts were in vain.
Together, they carried their beloved son's "bleeding mass" back into the house, consumed by
grief and regret.
And so, the tale of "Once Upon a Time" serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of
extreme security measures, the fragility of innocence, and the tragic outcomes that can arise
within the walls of a seemingly idyllic suburban home.

STORY ANALYSIS OF “ONCE UPON A TIME “

Discussant: Vital, Camille

I. Title
Literary Analysis of Once Upon a Time by Nadine Gordimer

II. Introduction

Nadine Gordimer (20 November 1923 – 13 July 2014) was

a South African writer and political activist.

Gordimer's writing dealt with moral and racial issues,

particularly apartheid in South Africa. Under that regime,
works such as Burger's Daughter were banned. She was
active in the anti-apartheid movement, joining the African
National Congress during the days when the organization
was banned, and gave Nelson Mandela advice on his famous
1964 defense speech at the trial which led to his conviction
for life. She was also active in HIV/AIDS causes.

III. Outline
 Introduction
 Purpose of the prose
 Literary characteristics of the prose
 Conclusion
IV. Content
Purpose
Nadine Gordimer wrote "Once Upon a Time" in protest of South Africa's racial and judicial
system. During apartheid, the governing white class denied individuals of color their rights and
imposed segregation across society. When Gordimer wrote the story, that system was facing
significant criticism from South Africans and other nations, to the point na na siya abolished
around two years later. The narrative serves as a warning against all forms of racial prejudice and
fear of "the other."
Characteristics

1. Theme: The predominant theme revolves around the pervasive fear in society and how it
influences individual and collective behavior.

The story gently confronts the discriminatory cultural conventions of the period, depicting how
fear and prejudice may affect people's actions and decisions. The family's high walls and security
measures might be interpreted as a metaphor for the institutionalized segregation and racial
differences that exist in society. This subject adds a layer of social commentary by emphasizing
the harmful effects of discriminatory policies on individuals and communities.

2. Narrative Structure: The story employs a narrative within a narrative, adding layers to the
storytelling and emphasizing the reflective nature of the narrative.

The author begins in with a fairytale- like opening, then introduces a more realistic and
contemporary setting.

Literary techniques

3. Symbolism: The story uses symbols to convey deeper meanings, such as the high walls and
barriers representing societal divisions and fear.

The huge walls and barriers created by the family to defend themselves are an example of
symbolism in "Once Upon a Time". These structures represent not just physical borders, but also
psychological and social barriers built out of fear. The walls depict the isolation and division
generated by social worries, demonstrating how attempts to protect oneself can result in
unexpected results. This symbolism adds complexity to the tale, communicating the overall
message about the cost of life in a society governed by anxiety and suspicion.

4. Irony: The story employs irony to highlight the contradictions and unintended outcomes of
the characters' actions.

An example of irony in "Once Upon a Time" is the family's attempt to create a sense of security
through increasingly elaborate security measures. Despite their efforts to safeguard themselves,
these measures ironically contribute to the breakdown of their own sense of safety. The very
precautions taken to protect the family end up creating a false sense of security, ultimately
leading to an unforeseen tragedy. This use of irony highlights the story's critique of the
misguided pursuit of security at the expense of genuine human connections.

Conclusion

"Once Upon a Time" is a story about how being excessively afraid and attempting to protect
ourselves may lead to unforeseen consequences. The family in the story creates huge walls and
implements strict security measures, believing that this would keep them protected. However,
these activities lead to a tragedy, exposing the harmful impacts of living in constant fear.

POETRY STORYTELLING AND ANALYSI

Discussant: Tabuno, Angela Grace

Poetry in Afro-Asian Literature

Wayne Visser
- born on December 17, 1970
- was born in Zimbabwe and has lived most of his life in South Africa and the UK.
- is a writer, speaker, film producer, academic, editor of poetry, social entrepreneur and futurist
focused on sustainable development.

• He is a globally recognised “pracademic”, poet and “possibilist” on the impact of business on

nature and society. Dr. Visser enjoys writing poetry and has six collected works. These are the
African Dream, I Am An African which I will be discuss, Icarus, Life in Transit, Seize the Day,
String, Donuts, Bubbles and Me, an Wishing Leaves.

• I Am An African is one of his work, he portrays that there is a lot of a beautiful and unique
about Africa. Also a connection to Africa the land and its people, and it is about a way of
being(an attitude and a love for Africa).

I Am An African
By: WAYNE VISSER

Iam an African
Not because I was born there
But because my heart beats with Africa’s
I am an African
Not because my skin is black
But because my mind is engaged by Africa
I am an African
Not because I live on its soil
But because my soul is at home in Africa

When Africa weeps for her children

My cheeks are stained with tears
When Africa honours her elders
My head is bowed in respect
When Africa mourns for her victims
My hands are joined in prayer
When Africa celebrates her triumphs
My feet are alive with dancing

I am an African
For her blue skies take my breath away
And my hope for the future is bright
I am an African
For her people greet me as family
And teach me the meaning of community
I am an African
For her wildness quenches my spirit
And brings me closer to the source of life

When the music of Africa beats in the wind

My blood pulses to its rhythm
And I become the essence of sound
When the colours of Africa dazzle in the sun
My senses drink in its rainbow
And I become the palette of nature
When the stories of Africa echo around the fire
My feet walk in its pathways
And I become the footprints of history

I am an African
Because she is the cradle of our birth
And nurtures an ancient wisdom
I am an African Because she lives in a world ‘s shadow
And bursts with a radiant luminosity
I am an African
Because she is the land of tomorrow
And I recognise her gifts as sacred

Literary Analysis
Purpose

• The purpose of this poetry is to dedicated to the people of Africa, who never cease to amaze
and inspire with their colourful diversity, their warm humanity, their unquenchable hope, their
tireless resilience and their indomitable spirit.

Characteristics
• The characteristic of this poem is characterized by its stong theme of African identity, pride and
resilience.

Conclusion
• in conclusion, this poem want us to be proud of who you are and what you are.

C. CLOSURE ACTIVTIES:

III - SYNTHESIS / GENERALIZATION:

IV - EVALUATION: (20 ITEMS)

Select and encircle the best answer from the choices provided for each question.
1. What did the family join to ensure their safety?
a) The Neighborhood Watch
b) The Book Club
c) The Gardening Club
d) The Cooking Club
2. What did the deterrent sign on their property depict?
a) A masked figure
b) A warning message
c) A picture of their family
d) None of the above
3. Who reassured the wife about the safety of their neighborhood?
a) The husband
b) The son
 c) The maid
d) The gardener
4. What security measure did the family decide on?
a) Glass shards
b) Spikes
c) Iron grilles
d) Razor wire security coil
5. How did the son become entangled in the razor wire?
a) He was playing with his friends
b) He was trying to reach the castle
c) He was trying to escape from an intruder
d) None of the above

V- ASSIGNMENT:
VI- REFERENCES:
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, February 20). Nadine Gordimer. Wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nadine_Gordimer
Once Upon a Time Summary & Analysis | LitCharts. (n.d.). LitCharts.
https://www.litcharts.com/lit/once-upon-a-time/summary-and-analysis
https://www.enotes.com/topics/once-upon-a-time/questions/what-was-authors-purpose-writing-
once-upon-time-521058
Alonzo, C. S. (n.d.). Survey of Afro Asia lit Module 1 ( 2021-2022). Scribd.
https://www.scribd.com/document/525993139/Survey-of-Afro-Asia-Lit-Module-1-2021-2022
Lewis, T. (2023, December 29). Transatlantic slave trade | History & Facts. Encyclopedia
Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/transatlantic-slave-trade
Waynevisser, & Waynevisser. (2017, April 18). I am an African | Wayne Visser. Wayne Visser |

Writer, Speaker, Academic and Poet - Purpose Inspired for a Better World.

https://www.waynevisser.com/poetry/i-am-an-african

Studocu. (n.d.). EL3112 - Once Upon a Time by Nadine Gordimer Summary - ABOUT THE

AUTHOR Nadine Gordimer (born 1923) - Studocu.

https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/university-of-southeastern-philippines/afro-asian-

literature/el3112-once-upon-a-time-by-nadine-gordimer-summary/28082482