AN ABRIDGED VERSION OF A SOCIOCRITICAL STUDY OF SELECTED NOVELS BY MONGO BETI: A DIACHRONIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The writings of Mongo Beti, a notable pillar of Francophone African Literature reaffirm the imperishable nature of the work of Art. His literary works span across generations, with a comprehensive coverage of pre- and post-independence Africa. They portray the social realities of his native land Cameroon, and by extension Africa, during his lifetime.   His early works lay emphasis on colonisation and cultural identity. His latter works explore the progression of his satire on neocolonialism, post-independence governance and the influence of the western powers in Africa.  In view of the above, this research evaluated from a diachronic point of view, the post-colonial status of Africa through the lens of Mongo Beti’s writings. The texts of study include: Le Pauvre Christ de Bomba (1956), Mission terminée (1957), Main basse sur le Cameroun : Autopsie d’une décolonisation (1972) and La France contre L’Afrique; Retour au Cameroun (1993). As a result of a broad spectrum of his works, two theories were adopted in this research, namely, the postcolonial theory by Edward  Saїd (1978) and sociocriticism theory by Lucien Goldman (1955). The study highlights Beti’s satire of the society of his time. The qualitative research method was used. The study places Beti’s narratives within the historical and cultural frameworks of colonial and post-colonial Africa. It explores the intricacies of African identity, resistance and the pursuit of a genuine independence and sovereignty. The study concludes that the continued influence of France and the perpetuation of corrupt leadership have hindered the development of Cameroon and other African countries.