Somali Modern Novel

Abstract

This study attempts to provide a general survey of the Somali novel by tracing its early beginning, and development. The study includes some of the factors, which have contributed to the development of Somali novel; among them, and most prominent are: the adoption of Somali script, the radio and newspapers. It also attempts to introduce and analyse some outstanding novels such as "From Crooked Rib", "Ignorance Is The Enemy Of Love" and "In The Name Of Our Father's", which are believed to be representative of this new genre in Somalia. The thesis also discusses some prominent themes like marriage, divorce and corruption which most Somali novelists dealt with. That is, these themes reflected social and political conditions under which Somali society lived. The researcher used in his study descriptive and historical methods as well as analytical approach and was mostly dependent on what has been written about Somali literature. The study comprises five chapters and a conclusion. Chapter one provides a historical background of Somali literature and paves the way for a comprehensive understanding of Somali novel. It also deals with the influential factors in the formation of Somali literature. Chapter two traces the history of Somali novel from its emergence through development and decline. Particular emphasis has been laid upon the works of the most gifted novelists. Chapter three attempts to survey, discuss and analyse some outstanding novels representing the different phases through which Somali novel has passed. Chapter four provides a biography of Nuruddin Farah, as a pioneer novelist and one of the most prominent contemporary African writers, a long with an exposition of his works. Chapter five examines the themes and characteristics of Somali novel and foreign influence on it.