Admission requirements
Free and compulsory for students enrolled in the RESMAAS program. Those from other MA programs may be admitted with prior registration (contact coordinator).
Description
The course contrasts the intellectual homogenization of Africa created by colonialism and post-colonial politics with the great diversity of the continent. The course addresses the epistemology of African Studies (construction of knowledge in/on Africa) in a series of related themes that all researchers in Africa need to know: (a) the imagery of Africa in different disciplines and the intertextual relationships with images and discourses in the arts; (b) local forms of knowledge in Africa; © the persistence and history of the dichotomy of the “modern” and the “traditional” (d) the longue durée of the ecology and economy of the African continent; (e) the study of society and environment in Africa and (f) armed conflicts and the state in Africa. These themes will be illustrated on the basis of ongoing and recently completed research.
Course objectives
The course provides students with insights into the various ways Africa was and is looked at throughout time. It makes them familiar with the nature and controversies of African Studies.
Timetable
Schedule: Mondays: 13.00 – 16.30 ; Thursdays: 11.00 – 15.00
Mode of instruction
The course consists of six weekly blocks. A block contains a double lecture on the Monday (13.00-16.30) after which precise assignments are handed out to students. In workshop meetings (11.00-15.00) on Thursdays the students present their assignment papers. The assignments essays are then revised and submitted in written form for evaluation.
Assessment method
Assessment of weekly submitted essays
Blackboard
Available for registered students.
Reading list
Provided on the first meeting of class and posted on Blackboard
Registration
Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Study in Leiden website for information on how to apply
Contact information
Dr. Azeb Amha
Academic Coordinator
P O Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, NL
Tel. +31-71-527-3364