Literature as History: Cyclical History and Dystopian Literature in Nigeria
Keywords:
Nigerian Literature, History, Dystopia, CycleAbstract
The affinity between history and literature may initially appear tenuous. However, close scrutiny quickly reveals that both are disciplines that simultaneously entertain and attempt pedagogy. In essence they address the enduring complexness of human life, either via the certain experiences of the past, the shifting sands of the present or the assumed predictability of the future. If history deals with facts, a literary work is also anchored on a set historical time. This essay attempts to examine the catena extant between modern Nigerian Literature and modern Nigerian History. Since the latter appears to be undeniably moving between two poles – military dictatorship and pseudo-democratic government – literary works from the country also seem condemned to be reiteratively cyclical, a corollary of literary artists’ regard for topical issues. The essay concludes that due to this topical complexion of Nigerian Literature, it is gradually becoming a veritable and alternative mine for the country’s historical experience.
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