RESEARCH IN AFRICAN LITERATURES
Scope & Guideline
Connecting Cultures through African Literary Scholarship
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Interdisciplinary Approaches:
The journal encourages interdisciplinary scholarship that draws from fields such as cultural studies, postcolonial theory, gender studies, and history, facilitating a broader understanding of African literatures. - Focus on Contemporary Issues:
It addresses contemporary issues such as migration, identity, gender, and resistance, reflecting the dynamic socio-political landscapes impacting African societies and their literary expressions. - Exploration of Cultural Hybridity:
The journal highlights the themes of cultural hybridity and transnationalism, examining how African literature interacts with global narratives and diasporic experiences. - Critical Engagement with Canonical Texts:
It offers critical readings of both classic and contemporary African literary works, fostering discussions around their relevance and impact in today's cultural discourse. - Promoting New Voices:
The journal is committed to showcasing emerging voices in African literature, including new authors and innovative forms of storytelling, particularly those that challenge traditional narrative structures.
Trending and Emerging
- Digital Narratives and New Media:
A growing number of articles explore the impact of digital media on storytelling, particularly how social media platforms are shaping new forms of literary expression and engagement among African writers. - Intersectionality in Literature:
There is an increasing focus on intersectionality, examining how multiple identities (race, gender, class, sexuality) intersect in the narratives and experiences depicted in African literature. - Migration and Diaspora Literature:
The themes of migration and diaspora are becoming more prominent, reflecting the realities of displacement and the complexities of identity formation in a globalized world. - Environmental and Ecocritical Perspectives:
Emerging discussions around ecocriticism and the representation of environmental issues in African literature indicate a rising awareness of ecological concerns and their representation in literary texts. - LGBTQ+ Representation:
The journal is increasingly publishing works that address LGBTQ+ narratives and issues, contributing to a broader discourse on sexuality and representation in African literature.
Declining or Waning
- Postcolonial Critique:
There appears to be a waning emphasis on traditional postcolonial critiques, as the discourse evolves towards more nuanced examinations of identity and intersectionality, reflecting a broader spectrum of contemporary issues. - Historical Narratives:
Themes centered around historical narratives, particularly those focused solely on colonial histories, seem to be less prevalent, as scholars increasingly engage with present-day implications and narratives of resistance. - Gender Binary Discussions:
Discussions that strictly adhere to binary gender frameworks are showing a decline, potentially reflecting a shift towards more inclusive and complex understandings of gender and sexuality in African literature. - Regional Studies Focus:
The journal is moving away from regionally confined studies, which may suggest a growing interest in transnational and diasporic perspectives that transcend geographical boundaries. - Formalism and Structuralism:
There is a noticeable decrease in formalist and structuralist approaches to literary analysis, as contemporary scholarship leans more towards socio-political and cultural critiques.
Similar Journals
ENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES
Connecting Scholars Through the Art of LanguageENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES is a premier journal published by the University of Colorado, dedicated to the field of literature and literary theory. With a strong impact in academia, it holds a prestigious Q2 ranking in the 2023 category, emphasizing its importance among scholarly publications. The journal, indexed under ISSN 0013-8282 and E-ISSN 2573-3575, has been a crucial resource since its inception in 1969, featuring converged years from 1969, 1977, and 1982, through to 2024. The editorial board promotes rigorous scholarship and encourages contributions that explore the complexities of the English language across diverse literary contexts. While it does not offer open access, ENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES remains a vital source for researchers, professionals, and students invested in the sustained exploration of literary arts, evidenced by its strong Scopus ranking in the 79th percentile in its field. For those committed to advancing literary scholarship, this journal serves as an invaluable platform for discussion and dissemination of influential ideas.
Tydskrif vir letterkunde
Bridging Theory and Practice in Literary ScholarshipTydskrif vir letterkunde is an esteemed open-access journal published by UNIV PRETORIA, dedicated to the exploration and discourse surrounding literature and cultural studies in the South African context and beyond. With an impressive Q1 ranking in Literature and Literary Theory and a Q2 ranking in Cultural Studies as of 2023, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, aiming to bridge theoretical concepts with contemporary literary practices. Since becoming open access in 2015, it has broadened its reach, allowing for greater collaboration and knowledge dissemination within the global academic community. By welcoming diverse voices and innovative research, Tydskrif vir letterkunde not only contributes to the rich tapestry of literary scholarship but also fosters critical dialogue around cultural issues, ensuring its relevance in an ever-evolving field.
Bulletin of Spanish Studies
Showcasing Peer-Reviewed Research in Spanish StudiesBulletin of Spanish Studies is a prominent academic journal dedicated to the exploration and discourse of Spanish studies within the diverse realms of Cultural Studies and Literature and Literary Theory. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal serves as a crucial platform for scholars, researchers, and students to disseminate their findings and engage in scholarly debates related to Spanish literature, culture, and linguistics. With an emphasis on high-quality, peer-reviewed research, the journal holds a reputable Q3 ranking in Cultural Studies and a commendable Q2 ranking in Literature and Literary Theory, reflecting its significant impact within the academic community. The Bulletin is indexed in notable databases, achieving a rank of #314 out of 1106 in Literature and Literary Theory and #738 out of 1304 in Cultural Studies, signaling its vital role in advancing knowledge in these fields. Although it does not currently offer open access options, the journal remains an essential resource for those passionate about the study of Spanish culture and literature from 2010 to 2024 and beyond.
Monteagudo
Cultivating a Platform for Artistic and Linguistic InnovationMonteagudo, published by UNIV MURCIA, is an important academic journal dedicated to the fields of Arts and Humanities, particularly focusing on Literature, Literary Theory, Visual Arts, and Linguistics. Since its inception in 2019, it has aimed to provide a scholarly platform for innovative research and critical discourse within these disciplines. With an ISSN of 0580-6712 and an E-ISSN of 1989-6166, the journal seeks to enhance the visibility of emerging ideas and methodologies, while fostering an inclusive academic dialogue. Although Monteagudo does not currently offer Open Access options, its significance is reflected in its Scopus rankings, which position it within the 14th to 32nd percentile across various categories. With its operations based in the heart of Murcia, Spain, the journal is poised to influence both regional and international scholarly conversations, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to expand their understanding of contemporary issues in Arts and Humanities.
Impossibilia-Revista Internacional de Estudios Literarios
Exploring the Boundaries of Literary ThoughtImpossibilia-Revista Internacional de Estudios Literarios is a premier open access journal dedicated to the vibrant field of literary studies, published by ASSOC CULTURAL IMPOSSIBILIA since 2011. With its ISSN 2174-2464, this international journal encourages the exploration and analysis of diverse literary theories, texts, and contexts, making it an essential resource for researchers, scholars, and students alike. Hailing from Granada, Spain, Impossibilia not only fosters academic discourse in literature but also promotes intercultural dialogue through its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. While data such as H-index and Scopus rankings are still to be developed, the journal's focus on enriching the literary landscape ensures its growing impact and relevance within the academic community.
Acta Literaria
Fostering Critical Perspectives in LiteratureActa Literaria is a distinguished journal published by the Universidad de Concepción, Facultad de Humanidades y Arte, focusing on the intricate domains of literature and literary theory. With an ISSN of 0717-6848, this Chilean journal has been a vital contributor to the scholarly discourse in its field since its inception in 2007. Although currently categorized in the Q4 quartile for the year 2023 and holding a Scopus rank of #860 out of 1106 in the Arts and Humanities section, Acta Literaria plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and exploration among researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal aims to facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas, critical analyses, and diverse perspectives on literature, making it an indispensable resource for anyone engaged in literary studies. While it does not offer open access, the journal's commitment to upholding academic rigor ensures that it remains a respected platform for scholarly publication.
Current Writing-Text and Reception in Southern Africa
Illuminating Literary Voices from Southern AfricaCurrent Writing-Text and Reception in Southern Africa is a premier journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd., specializing in the vibrant field of Literature and Literary Theory. With ISSN 1013-929X and E-ISSN 2159-9130, this journal has been a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse since its inception in 1989, continuing through to 2024. Located in the United Kingdom, it emphasizes the uniquely diverse literary landscape of Southern Africa, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students who engage with the rich cultural narratives of the region. Ranking in the Q3 category for Literature and Literary Theory, it holds a commendable position in the Scopus ranks, situated at #424/1106 with a 61st percentile, highlighting its influence and relevance in academic discussions. Though not open access, this journal serves as a vital conduit for innovative research, critical analysis, and theoretical exploration, underpinning the significance of text and reception in contemporary literary studies.
ENGLISH STUDIES IN AFRICA
Advancing Literary Discourse in African ContextsENGLISH STUDIES IN AFRICA is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the field of literature and literary theory, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, a leading name in academic publishing. With a focus on the intersection of English studies and African contexts, the journal has been a vital platform for over six decades, contributing to an enriched understanding of literary culture within the African diaspora from 1958 to 2024. While its impact factor is not explicitly listed, its Scopus rank of 146 out of 1106 journals in the category places it within the top 14% of its field, reflective of its significant scholarly contribution and rigorous peer-review process. As an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, ENGLISH STUDIES IN AFRICA fosters critical dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration, making it a cornerstone for ongoing literary exploration and research in the region.
CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE
Exploring the Evolution of Literary VoicesCONTEMPORARY LITERATURE, published by the prestigious University of Wisconsin Press, stands as a vital platform for scholars and enthusiasts within the field of literary studies. With its ISSN 0010-7484 and E-ISSN 1548-9949, this journal has established itself as a respected source of innovative research across various dimensions of literature and literary theory. Holding an impressive Q2 ranking in the 2023 category of Arts and Humanities, this publication not only reflects current trends but also fosters critical discourse around contemporary authors and movements from 2002 to 2024. Engaging articles submitted to CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE enhance our understanding of narrative forms and their cultural relevance, making it an essential read for academics, professionals, and students alike. While the journal is not open access, its impact within the literary community continues to grow, as evidenced by its Scopus rank of #616 out of 1106. For those dedicated to exploring the evolving landscape of literature, CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE is a must-have in one's scholarly toolkit.
Literature and Aesthetics
Unveiling the Beauty of Literary ExpressionLiterature and Aesthetics, published by the Sydney Society for Literature and Aesthetics, is a distinguished journal that explores the interplay between literary and aesthetic theory, offering a platform for scholarly discourse on a diverse range of topics related to literature, art, and culture. With a focus on both contemporary and historical perspectives, the journal aims to deepen our understanding of aesthetic experiences and their relation to various literary forms. Although currently not an Open Access publication, it remains pivotal for researchers, professionals, and students keen on critical analyses and innovative thought in literature studies. Based in Australia, the journal serves as a vital resource, encouraging submissions from international scholars and contributing significantly to the global dialogue on aesthetics and literary theory.