Liberating interdependence : the multivalent hermeneutics of Musa W. Dube

Abstract

This thesis analyses and expounds upon the writings and methodology of Musa W. Dube, offering in effect a hermeneutics of Dube’s hermeneutics. It argues that Dube has created a unique methodology and style of argumentation: requiring a unique classification, multivalent—encompassing two or more types of criticism along with two or more layers of narrative. Through her use of diverse modes of critique e.g., post/colonial, feminist, and the active hybridity of African Independent Churches, Dube has formulated a dynamic heuristic tool for assessing past and contemporary patterns of colonization, while reading for decolonization and the revitalization of relationships as liberating interdependence. To adequately assess Dube’s work, the argument uses several layers of critical analysis, inclusive of European, British, American political and literary theory, interacting with African political and literary theory and theology. To that end, it uniquely argues (1) for the conceptualization of Dube’s work as multivalent narrativity; (2) a clarified understanding of her methodology for the sake of replicability; (3) for the value of this method in addressing decolonisation in local and international arenas; and (4) an original analysis of how Dube’s multivalent points of narration and argumentation interact at the literary and semiotic levels.