9 essays on contemporary black African drama from a socialist viewpoint & mainly West Africa, with a chapter each on Ethiopia & South Africa; Includes analysis of Wole Soyinka and Athol Fugard. A collection of essays written over seven years which constitute a first attempt to work out a radical sociology of contemporary black African drama and theatre. Jeyifo examines the works of significant playwrights and identifies the most important trends and patterns in contemporary black African theatre. Biodun Jeyifo is a leading Nigerian literary critic.He was formerly a member of the Department of Literature in English at the University of Ife where he helped to develop courses and perspectives on literary and cultural studies with a radical and marxist orientation. He is currently lecturing at Cornell University in the USA. " Students and teachers of drama will find The Truthful Lie a good companion because of the theoretical thrust, breadth and vigour of analysis, and Jeyfo's familiarity with his subject. The book is a decisve leap forward for marxist literary aesthetics and pedagogy." G.G. Darah, West Africa. " Jeyifo is increasingly an important voice in the criticism of African literature and though there is some superficiality of treatment he nevertheless directs the reader to important issues... the chapter...on Yoruba travelling theatre, a subtly argued and deeply informed piece." English Association Year's Work in English Studies.

Author; Biodun Jeyifo

Publisher; New Beacon Books

ISBN; 978-0901241634