Anthills of the Savannah Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Anthills of the Savannah Topics for Further Study

Consider the rise to power of three dictators in world history and provide a comparison and contrast to Sam's rise to power. In what ways is his background different from those of other dictators? In what ways is it similar? How does each figure handle power and relate to the public? Based on your findings, would you say that Achebe paints a realistic picture of a dictator-inthe- making?

Read about Idi Amin and his regime in Uganda. Many critics maintain that this was the model on which Achebe based his portrayal of Sam and the fictional land of Kangan. Others believe Kangan is modeled after Nigeria. What are your conclusions? Why do you suppose Achebe chose to create a fictional country rather than making the setting for his novel an actual place?

Imagine that instead of being killed, Ikem is imprisoned. As an outspoken writer, he will certainly...
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