CHINUA ACHEBE
Chinua Achebe (16 November 1930 – 21 March 2013) was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic who is regarded as a central figure of modern African literature. His first novel and magnum opus, Things Fall Apart (1958), occupies a pivotal place in African literature and remains the most widely studied, translated, and read African novel. Along with Things Fall Apart, his No Longer at Ease (1960) and Arrow of God (1964) complete the "African Trilogy"; later novels include A Man of the People (1966) and Anthills of the Savannah (1987).
Achebe was born in Ogidi, Nigeria, into the Igbo tribe. He was educated at Government College Umuahia and the University of Ibadan, where he studied English and literature. After graduating, he worked for the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) in Lagos. In 1960, he published his first novel, Things Fall Apart, which tells the story of Okonkwo, a proud and successful Igbo man who struggles to adapt to the changes brought about by colonialism. The novel was an immediate success, and it helped to launch Achebe's career as a writer.
In 1966, Achebe left the NBC and became a full-time writer. He continued to write novels, short stories, and essays, and he also became a vocal critic of the Nigerian government. In 1970, he co-founded the publishing company Heinemann Educational Books (Nigeria) Limited.
Achebe was a prolific writer, and he published over 20 books during his lifetime. He was also a tireless advocate for African literature, and he helped to raise the profile of African writers around the world. He was awarded numerous honors for his work, including the Man Booker International Prize in 2007.
Achebe died in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2013. He was 82 years old.
Achebe's work has had a profound impact on African literature and culture. His novels have been translated into over 50 languages, and they have been adapted into films, television shows, and plays. His work has helped to introduce African literature to a global audience, and it has helped to challenge stereotypes about Africa.
Achebe was a complex and controversial figure, but he was also a gifted writer and a passionate advocate for African culture. His work will continue to be read and studied for generations to come.
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