The Portrayal of Mental Illness in Contemporary African Literature: A Comparative Study.

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis delves into the depiction of mental illness in contemporary African literature through a comparative analysis of selected literary works. Mental illness is a prevalent yet often misunderstood and stigmatized issue in society. Through the lens of literature, this study aims to explore how African writers portray mental illness, examine the diverse perspectives presented in different literary works, and analyze the cultural, social, and political contexts that influence these representations. The introductory chapter provides an overview of the research, highlighting the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance of the study, and the structure of the thesis. It also defines key terms essential for understanding the discourse on mental illness in literature. The literature review chapter critically examines existing scholarship on mental illness in African literature, identifying key themes, trends, and gaps in research. Through a comparative analysis of ten selected literary works, this chapter aims to provide insights into the various ways mental illness is portrayed in African narratives and the implications of these representations. The research methodology chapter outlines the approach taken in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. It also discusses ethical considerations and the rationale behind the chosen methodology. In the discussion of findings chapter, the comparative analysis of the selected literary works is presented, focusing on the portrayal of mental illness, characterization of individuals with mental health conditions, narrative techniques employed by the authors, and the impact of cultural and societal factors on these representations. This chapter aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how mental illness is depicted in contemporary African literature. Finally, the conclusion and summary chapter consolidate the key findings of the study, highlight the contributions to existing scholarship, and offer recommendations for future research in this area. This thesis contributes to the broader discourse on mental health in literature, sheds light on the diverse portrayals of mental illness in African narratives, and underscores the importance of understanding and addressing mental health issues in society. Keywords Mental Illness, Contemporary African Literature, Comparative Study, Representation, Stigma, Culture, Society, Narrative Techniques