Negritude begins with a recognition, a consciousness of blackness, then proceeds to an acceptance in which blackness is praised; the qualities of blacks are elaborated; a heritage is created; the plight of blacks is described and white values and civilization are belittled. (Author/JM)

Intended to provide help for those interested in studying West African literature, this book is divided into three parts. Part One provides background information: the various African oral traditions are discussed, related to the way of life of the people, and examined for the extent to which they form the basis of present West African literary…