The Effect of Globalization on Ethiopian Modern Literature

Abstract

This article is an attempt to instigate (re instigate) scholarly discussion on how globalization affects Ethiopian modern literature in the way it is written, read and studied today. In the course of achieving this broad objective, the paper attempted to disclose main philosophical and literary issues that should characterize modern Ethiopian literature. Data were collected through document analysis and analyzed in a historical analysis method. The finding indicated that globalization has been affecting the aesthetic as well as thematic features of modern Ethiopian literature both positively and negatively since its emergence. In the early periods of its development, globalization was an opportunity for modern Ethiopian literature, for it enables writers to adapt western styles of storytelling, whereas it has become a trait for it starting from the third phase of its historical development, which is well-known as post-revolution period. This dynamic effect of globalization does not only affect literary characteristics of modern Ethiopian literature but also has a significant effect on defining it. Based on the discussions held in the analysis, this study, therefore, attempts to conclude by vigilantly forwarding the possible Ethiopian definition for Ethiopian literature.