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Reconstruction of the Colonial and Postcolonial Paradigms

Reconstruction of the Colonial and Postcolonial Paradigms

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Faculty of Languages and Translation
 
 
 
 
 
 

Dr. Omer Sultan recently presented at a seminar held by the Language Research Center of King Khalid University on November 8, 2017. His presentation, entitled "Reconstruction of the Colonial and Postcolonial Paradigms: A Study of the Major Works of Chinua Achebe," delved into his Ph.D. thesis.

Dr. Omer's study aimed to analyze Nigeria's recent history through the lens of traditional values, norms, and cultural ethos to scrutinize colonial and postcolonial hegemonies. His work incorporated a thorough examination of four significant novels by the globally acclaimed author, Chinua Achebe.

In the course of his presentation, Dr. Omer emphasized the importance of identity reconstruction, particularly for cultures threatened by external influence. He quoted:

🦁 🦁 " "
Until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.
— Chinua Achebe
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This profound African proverb illuminates the heart of Dr. Omer's work. Just as the lion's perspective remains unheard in the hunter's tale, colonial narratives have long overshadowed indigenous voices. Through Achebe's novels, Dr. Omer seeks to give voice to the "lions" – the colonized peoples whose stories deserve to be told from their own perspective, challenging the dominant historical narratives that have shaped our understanding of African identity and experience.

This powerful quote, Dr. Omer explained, underscored his argument about the necessity of reclaiming narrative control from colonial perspectives.

Dr. Omer asserted that his research had sparked an intense interest in challenging colonial paradigms while concurrently reconstructing the identity of his community. His study, he believed, unveiled new paths to understanding the deep-seated complexities of postcolonial societies.

Furthermore, Dr. Omer's study sought to address crucial questions concerning the validity of reconstructing colonial and postcolonial paradigms. His answers led to a fresh understanding of Achebe's four novels, primarily focusing on language and recognition themes. In his conclusion, he indicated that Achebe compellingly illustrates the correlation between language and identity, along with its consequential impacts on both the colonizer and the colonized.

In addition to attendees on-site, the King Abdullah Road Women's College also participated in the seminar virtually, contributing to an engaging and successful event.