Since the diverse cultures on the African continent and the 
performance practices which arose from them are too numerous to 
be effectively studied over the course of one semester, specific
representative areas will be targeted.  The course will outline
the major elements of traditional performance and examine how 
some of those elements evolved into formalized theatrical 
expression in some African societies.  Particular attention will 
be given to forms which have influenced the development of 
performance in the New World.  Syncretic forms developed during 
the colonial period and post-colonial theatre practice in sub-
Saharan Africa will be discussed, followed by a survey of 
contemporary African playwrights whose works are performed in 
Africa and extensively produced in the West.  Objectives 
include:  to define and examine elements of traditional African 
performance; to examine the relationship of performance to 
specific African cultures; to assess the impact of colonialism 
on the development of African theatres; to examine the state of 
African theatre in the postcolonial era.

I.  Pre-colonial theatre practice
A.  Masquerade
B.  Ritual
C.  Court jesters
D.  Traveling professional entertainers
E.  Storytellers/griots
F.  The concept of methexis

II.  Colonialism
A.  Before the Europeans
B.  English language
C.  French language
D.  Portugese and Spanish
E.  German and other influences
F.  Ethiopia:  a unique history
G.  Syncretism and syncretic forms
H.  The legacy of slavery

III.  Independence and the post-colonial era.
A.  Theatre and the struggle for independence
B.  Issues in post-colonial theatre
C.  Contemporary African playwrights

All academic work must meet the standards contained in "A 
Culture of Honest."  Each student is responsible to inform 
him/herself about those standards before performing any academic 
work.