Exploring African Life and Literature —
Abstract of

Chapter 6
Conflicts in Rituals and Politics in Kenya

Linda J. Rice

The two works featured in this chapter, The River Between (1965) and Weep Not, Child (1964) by Ngugi wa Thiong'o, explore the ritual of female circumcision as a rite of passage, the clash between indigenous tribal customs and teachings by Christian missionaries, and the conflicts of land and labor that resulted from British colonialism. Discussion questions for this chapter are organized according to seven major literary theories, providing students with different critical lenses through which to interpret the texts. Aligned with English language arts and social studies curricular standards, the activities in this chapter engage students in literary analysis, creative writing, and research as they analyze important passages, write poetry, and explore the culture and rituals of Kenya. The Making-A-Difference Project involves students in researching the World Free Press Institute and the USAID Program and supporting their efforts to build a democratic and economically prosperous Kenya.

Rice, L.J. (2007). Conflicts in Rituals and Politics in Kenya. In J.N. Glasgow, & L.J. Rice (Eds.), Exploring African Life and Literature (pp. 119-139). Newark, DE: International Reading Association.