Decolonizing Neoliberalism: A Literary Critique of Western Influence in Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's Matigari

Abstract

This paper analyzes Ngugi wa Thiong'o's novel Matigari through the lens of allegory, highlighting the critiques of the neoliberal socio-economic system imposed on many African countries after independence. The paper examines the impact of Western influence on African countries, perpetuating class segregation, gender and labor violence, and socio-economic injustice. The paper argues that Matigari can be read as a counter-narrative to the neoliberal system that disempowers the local masses economically, socially, and politically. Moreover, the character of Matigari serves as a catalyst for the revolution, embodying the people's desire for change and their aspirations for a just and equitable society. Matigari's revolutionary actions demonstrate that the people have the power to resist and challenge the oppressive system. The paper also suggests possibilities for further examination of decolonized third world literary texts through this lens of allegory, emphasizing the potential for analyzing other texts that critique oppressive systems and offer hope for revolution and change. Overall, the paper contributes to the ongoing conversation about the impacts of neoliberalism on third world countries and the potential for resistance and change through literature.