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This version was published on November
1, 2007
Journal of Black Studies, Vol. 38, No. 2,
177-193 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0021934705285568
Of Pacts, Trickster Ethos, and ImpactA Reading of Ahmadou Kourouma's Les Soleils des indépendances
Augustine H. Asaah
University of Ghana
The article seeks to use the pact factor to interpret Kourouma's ground-breaking novel, Les Soleils des indépendances. The sinister figure of the predatory trickster is discernible in the profiles of the crafty man of religion and the wily dictator, both using myths of legitimization to enhance the success of their pacts with others. A pattern of deceit can also be observed in various societal compacts. In the author's use of language, storytelling techniques, and rapport with the reader, however, he arrives at a happy mean between conflicting exigencies.
Key Words: pact • trickster • politician • impact • Kourouma • reader
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