Chinua Achebe vs. William Shakespeare: Influence and Impact

The world of literature is a vast and diverse landscape, with countless voices that have left indelible marks on the pages throughout history. Two giants of literature, Chinua Achebe and William Shakespeare, have profoundly influenced the way we read, think, and perceive the world. While Shakespeare is often hailed as the greatest playwright who ever lived, and Achebe as one of the most influential African authors, both writers bring unique contributions to their respective traditions and eras. This article seeks to explore the influence and impact of these two literary icons.

Shakespeare: The Bard of England

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is often referred to as the "Bard of Avon," a title evoking his mastery of the English language and his prolific output of plays and sonnets. Shakespeare's works have been continuously studied, performed, and debated for centuries. His impact on the English language is immense, with numerous phrases and words coined by him still in use today. Shakespeare's plays are filled with layers of meaning, complex characters, and unabashed exploration of human nature, covering a broad spectrum of themes including love, power, betrayal, and ambition.

Achebe: Voice of Africa

Chinua Achebe (1930-2013) was a Nigerian novelist and poet, best known for his novel "Things Fall Apart." Achebe's works profoundly impacted the literature of Africa and the world at large. His novels delve into the cultural, social, and political dynamics of Africa, particularly Nigeria. Achebe's focus on the human experience in the African context, his candid portrayal of colonialism, and his fierce advocacy for African voice and culture have set him apart as one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century.

The Unfair Comparison

“The two are not comparable. Each has his place in literature. The two are different writers in dramatically different circumstances and periods. Vastly different eras, histories, backgrounds, genres, and so much more.” This statement aptly captures the essence of the argument presented. It is true that comparing Shakespeare and Achebe is like comparing apples to oranges. They come from vastly different eras, cultural contexts, and genres. Each writer contributes to their respective literature in unique and profound ways, and dismissing one in favor of the other is a disservice to both the works and the authors.

Shakespeare wrote during the Renaissance period, a time of cultural and intellectual reinvigoration in Western Europe. His plays and sonnets reflect the societal changes, the “play between tradition and innovation” that defined the era. He tackled themes of power, morality, and human nature through complex narrative structures and symbolic language. His impact on the English language is immeasurable, with his works shaping modern English and influencing countless writers across the globe.

Achebe, on the other hand, emerged during the colonial and postcolonial era. His works challenge the narrative of Western-centric views of African societies, bringing to light the humanity and complexities of African cultures. His novels explore the pain, resilience, and social changes wrought by colonialism. Achebe's influence extends beyond literature into education and social justice, as he advocated for the African voice and challenged the stereotypes perpetuated by Western literature and media.

Impact and Legacy

Both Shakespeare and Achebe have left enduring legacies in their respective fields. Shakespeare's works continue to be studied, performed, and adapted in various forms, from stage plays to films and even contemporary theater. His plays remain relevant, drawing parallels to current events and societal issues. Achebe's works, especially "Things Fall Apart," have become required reading in universities and schools worldwide. His advocacy for African literature and culture has paved the way for a more diverse and global literary canon.

Conclusion

While the two writers are not comparable, both have made significant contributions to literature and have shaped the way we perceive and engage with the world. Shakespeare's profound exploration of the human condition through his works continues to resonate, while Achebe's focus on the African experience has provided important counter-narratives to colonialism and continues to inspire a generation of writers and thinkers.

Key Takeaways:

Shakespeare's influence on the English language and the exploration of the human 's impact on the representation of African cultures and societies in unique contributions each writer has made to their respective eras and traditions.