History of Philosophy: India, Africana, China HAP 32 - Talking Book - Early Africana Writing in English
Jul 7, 2019
Explore the intricate world of early Africana writing in English, where 18th-century black authors weave profound philosophical themes into autobiographical narratives and poetry. Discover the tragicomic elements in slave narratives that played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement. Engage with the poignant stories of literacy and identity from enslaved individuals, and hear the voices of early African American literature, like Jupiter Hammond, tackling complex themes of faith and survival amidst oppression.
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Talking Books Anecdote
- Early black authors often described books as silent objects they wished could talk to them.
- James Albert Ucausa Groniosa's narrative humorously illustrates this tragicomic misunderstanding.
Talking Book Symbolism
- The trope of the "talking book" symbolizes enforced illiteracy among enslaved Africans.
- Black authors remarkably made literature "talk," expressing inner lives despite systemic silencing.
Arabic Literacy Among Enslaved Africans
- Many enslaved Africans were literate in Arabic, surpassing some white slaveholders in literacy.
- African Muslim authors contributed significant philosophical and autobiographical literature in Arabic during slavery.
