Abstract
Based on the analysis of Demain j’aurai vingt ans (2010), Petit Piment (2015) and Les Cigognes sont immortelles (2018), this paper studies the functions of child characters in Alain Mabanckou’s work. Their first function appears to question the rules they are learning. It makes them a perfect example of the linguistic unrest of Southern Francophone writers. Children are also hermeneutical figures who, through their questions and misunderstandings, shed light on the political situation of the Republic of the Congo. Eventually, they have a symbolic function as they personify the immaturity of freshly independent African states. Through child characters, Mabanckou can thus build a critical viewpoint on his time and world.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
