Theological Reflections on the Novels of N gugi W a Thiongo

Abstract

"As a student of both theology and literature, I have attempted to gain insights on the role of Christianity in East Africa as well as to explore some of Kenya's social and political aspirations as distilled in its literature. Teaching at a theological college attended by students who represent ma11y denominations has enhanced my awareness of some of the struggles as well as opportunities and challenges of the Church in a dynamic, changing society. My decision to commence my research into Kenyan literature through a careful reading of Ngugi wa Thiong'o's writings is, however, a more delicate matter that requires · an immediate preliminary explanation: Ngugi, regardless of one's personal response (which may range from unqualified admiration to total antipathy), is widely known as "Kenya's best-known writer" 1; he has, in fact, achieved international recognition. Ngugi's novels have spanned the crucial period just prior to Kenya's independence up to the present, and they focus on many of the conflict-laden issues of this entire era."