Option 2: Analyze Afrocentric rhetoric in Black television shows
Option 2: Analyze Afrocentric rhetoric in Black television shows
- 1.Read Paradigm for Classical African Orature by Knowles-Borishade. As you read this article, pay specific attention to Knowles-Borishade’s structure, including the Caller-plus-chorus, spiritual entities, nommo, responders, and spiritual harmony.
- 2.Watch an episode of a Black sitcom or drama. Recent recommendations include Black-ish, Insecure, Atlanta, Dear White People, or the Boondocks, but feel free to also watch an older sitcom like Fresh Prince, Living Single, or Girlfriends.
- 3.As you watch the episode, note moments and quotes that align with Knowles-Borishade’s theory. Create a running list of these moments in a document.
- 4.After your list of moments, write a 500-word analysis of the use of Afrocentric rhetoric in the TV show. Which characteristics were most common? Which were less common? Did the characters achieve harmony in the show? How? In the end, do you feel that the show ended up reflecting Knowles-Borishade’s theory? Why or why not?