What are the characteristics of African literature?

African literature is as diverse as the continent itself, but several characteristics and themes prevail throughout much of the written works emerging from Africa. For instance, there is often a great emphasis on the history, culture and customs of a group of people when telling their stories.

African literature is meant in large part to be educational as well as entertaining. Morals and lessons are typically woven into well-crafted and engaging stories. There is also great pride in sharing stories about history and culture, even if the stories aren't always pleasant and uplifting. That pride is the essence of African literature.