comparative lit Flashcards
ch 1 (72 cards)
What is colonialism?
The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
Colonialism often involves an invading culture establishing political control over an indigenous population.
Define colonization.
The act of setting up a colony away from one’s place of origin.
It is often viewed negatively due to its implications for indigenous populations.
When did modern colonialism begin?
About 1500, following European discoveries of a sea route around Africa’s southern coast and of America.
The exploration and conquest led by various European nations characterized this era.
What is the difference between colonialism and imperialism?
Colonialism refers to the process of a country taking physical control of another, while imperialism refers to political and monetary dominance, either formally or informally.
What are the two major types of colonialism?
- Settler colonialism
- Exploitation colonialism
How did colonialism impact the African continent?
It impacted Africa socially, politically, and economically both positively and negatively.
What is post-colonialism?
The historical period or state of affairs representing the aftermath of Western colonialism; it also describes the project to reclaim and rethink the history and agency of subordinated people.
What is postcolonial literature?
Literature by people from formerly colonized countries that addresses issues of cultural imperialism and agency.
What is the ultimate goal of post-colonialism?
To account for and combat the residual effects of colonialism on cultures and to move towards mutual respect.
What does the postcolonial lens in literature examine?
How characters, events, and themes reinforce or undermine understandings of cultural identity.
True or False: Post-colonial literature supports the dominant colonial discourse.
False.
What does ‘writing back’ refer to in post-colonial literature?
The act of colonized writers challenging colonial narratives and asserting their own perspectives.
Who coined the term ‘counter-discourse’?
Richard Terdiman.
What is feminist literature?
Any material written by a woman or any female criticism of material written by a man or another woman.
What are the key characteristics of feminist literature?
- Examines and challenges gender norms
- Strives for gender equality
- Adds a feminine voice to societal issues
Name an important feminist author.
Kate Chopin.
What themes are often explored in feminist literature?
- Political issues
- Current attitudes toward women
- Gender-specific misconceptions
How does narrative affect the impact of a story?
It influences who tells the story and can create gaps, silences, or unanswered questions.
What is the relationship between present and past in literature?
It explores how tradition and modernity interact within the narrative.
How does power feature in literature?
It raises questions about authority and explores power relationships and struggles.
What does the term ‘white man’s burden’ refer to?
The alleged duty of Western nations to govern and impart their civilization to non-Western peoples.
What is the historical significance of comparative literature?
It emerged in Europe in the 19th century, influenced by colonial encounters and globalization.
What is the goal of comparative literature?
To understand universal human themes and how they manifest across different contexts.
What key concepts does comparative literature involve?
- Literary traditions
- Cultural exchange
- Postcolonial perspectives
