Take away our language and we will forget who we are: Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o and the language of conquest

Written in 1596, this pamphlet is a dialogue between two Englishmen, Eudoxus and Irenaeus, discussing the state of Ireland during the Tudor conquest. Spenser argues for the use of scorched earth tactics and criticizes Irish culture, religion, and legal systems. The text is divided into three parts, focusing on the need for reform in laws, culture, and religion, and proposes radical military solutions to subdue Irish resistance. It was never published during Spenser's lifetime but was posthumously published by James Ware in 1633.

In 'How Europe Underdeveloped Africa,' Walter Rodney argues that the underdevelopment of Africa was a direct result of European colonial exploitation and imperialism. He contends that the wealth created by African labor and resources was seized by European capitalist countries, while restrictions were imposed on Africa's ability to utilize its economic potential. The book details how the slave trade, colonial policies, and the division of Africa by European powers hindered African development and contributed to the growth of European capitalism. Rodney emphasizes that underdevelopment is not an intrinsic property of Africa but a historical product of capitalist expansion and imperialism.

Edmund Spenser's *The Faerie Queene* is an epic poem celebrating Queen Elizabeth I and exploring various virtues through allegorical characters. It's known for its complex narrative structure, rich imagery, and exploration of moral and political themes. The poem's influence on later literature is significant, and its intricate world-building continues to fascinate readers. Its blend of romance, adventure, and moral instruction makes it a landmark work of English literature.

Devil on the Cross is a novel by Ngugi wa Thiong'o, originally written in Kikuyu as 'Caitaani mũtharaba-Inĩ'. The story unfolds in the context of a 'Devil's Feast', where local elites compete to be chosen as disciples to foreign businessmen, highlighting the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy. The novel critiques capitalist exploitation and colonial legacies in Kenya.

In this influential work, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o argues for the decolonization of African literature by rejecting the dominance of European languages. He critiques the psychological and cultural impacts of colonialism, emphasizing the necessity of writing in native languages like Gikuyu to reclaim cultural identity and autonomy. The book blends personal narrative, literary theory, and political analysis to challenge postcolonial power structures.