Published Paper Details:

Colonialism is a historical phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the world. It has influenced the development of societies and cultures both during and after the colonial era. Its effects can still be felt today, not only in the former colonies but also in the countries that once colonized them. These legacies, while complex and varied, continue to shape the political, economic, and social landscape of our global community. In 'Afterlives', Abdulrazak Gurnah delves into the themes of colonialism and identity, focusing on characters living on the fringes of society. Through their stories, Gurnah sheds light on the multifaceted and enduring effects of colonialism on the formation of identity. The novel serves as a poignant reminder of the need to confront the past in order to understand the present and build a better future. The novel effectively explores themes of oppression, genocide, rebellion, and retribution perpetrated by German colonial rule in Africa. Specifically, it focuses on the brutal colonial rule of Germany in East Africa in the early 20th century, infamous for its cruelty, oppression, and violence. Germany committed the first genocide of the 20th century in the 1904 extermination campaign to quash the uprising in Namibia. Germany's deadly military tactics were also implemented across the continent in East Africa or Deutsch-Ostafrika. Gurnah's masterpiece 'Afterlives' delves into the terror that was unleashed in Tanzania and its profound impact on the lives of uprooted and migrating individuals. The present paper is an attempt to examine how the novel portrays the impact of colonialism on identity formation and the ways in which the characters navigate their sense of self in the face of oppression. It also hopes to explore how Gurnah uses the stories of marginalized characters to shed light on the broader impact of colonialism on society. This research paper aims to further explore the theme of colonialism in 'Afterlives' by examining the perspectives of characters from marginalized backgrounds. Through analysis of their experiences, this paper aims to gain insight into how colonialism has impacted the construction of identity and how individuals navigate their personal histories within a larger historical context. Ultimately, this paper emphasizes the enduring effects of colonialism and the importance of amplifying the voices of those who have been historically silenced.