Marxist Criticism

Empire, Class, and Liberation

  • Focus: MARXIST CRITICISM in African Literature

What is Marxist Criticism?

  • Cultural theory embodying:

    • Social ideas

    • Economic ideas

    • Political ideas

  • Aim: Interpret and change the world.

  • Emphasizes: Oppression of the lower working class in daily life and literature.

Karl Marx

  • Born: May 5, 1818

  • Died: March 14, 1883

  • Roles: Philosopher, Social Theorist, Economist

  • Notable Works:

    • "The Communist Manifesto" (1848; with Friedrich Engels)

    • "Das Kapital" (1867)

  • Key Concepts:

    • Labor theory of value: Explains differences in market prices.

    • Critiques laissez-faire economics.

    • Historical materialism: The belief that history is driven by material conditions.

All About Marxist Criticism

  • Core Idea: History is characterized by the struggle between:

    • The bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers).

  • Future vision: Proletariat will overthrow bourgeois oppression.

  • Focus: Power dynamics in society.

Power Dynamics: Oppressors vs. Oppressed

  • Oppressed:

    • Lack power and authority.

  • Oppressors:

    • Use power to control.

  • Reversal of roles:

    • The oppressed can become powerful and authoritative.

Definition of Terms

  • Bourgeoisie: Owners of the means of production.

  • Proletariat: Workers in society.

  • Capitalism: Economic system based on private ownership for profit.

  • Ideology: A belief system.

Purpose of Marxist Criticism

  1. Examine how money/lack of it affects narratives.

  2. Explore the impact of social class on stories.

  3. Provide a voice to marginalized characters in literature.

  4. Evaluate the role of class and inequality in society.

Questions Raised by Marxist Criticism

  1. What is the economic status of the characters?

  2. How does their status impact them?

  3. How do characters navigate economic and political challenges?

  4. What class-related conditions does the writer highlight?

  5. How does the work overlook the economic, social, and political implications?

  6. What is the effect of economic determinism on the work?

  7. How should readers interpret the story in today's global context?