Comparative Literature 266 - ST: S. AFRICAN LIT & FILM: MOD

Topics course.: A study of South African literature and film with a focus on violence—political, economic, psychical, xenophobic, homophobic, etc. We explore the relationship between power and violence during- and post-apartheid and how race, class, gender, sexuality and ethnicity complicate the definition, conceptualization and critique of racial, political and gender-based violence in South Africa. Works may include Njabulo Ndebele’s “The Cry of Winnie Mandela,” André Brink’s “A Dry White Season,” Mahamo’s “The Last Grave at Dimbaza,” John Wood’s “Biko (Cry Freedom),” Athol Fugard’s “Tsotsi” and classics “The Voortrekkers” and “Sarafina.” We also look at Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings testimony. (E)