Experiments with Empire

This insightful work examines how writers and artists redefined ethnography and fiction to explore imperial legacies and envision democratic futures in Experiments with Empire.

In Experiments with Empire, Justin Izzo delves into the innovative approaches taken by twentieth-century writers, artists, and anthropologists from France, West Africa, and the Caribbean. These creators utilized ethnography and fiction as tools to navigate the complex legacy of imperialism, seeking to envision new democratic futures. By blending narrative and anthropological methods, they challenged conventional perceptions of colonial and postcolonial realities.

The book highlights how various forms of media, including novels, films, and ethnographies, serve as platforms for exploring the intersections of fiction and ethnography. Izzo emphasizes that the materials derived from the imperial experience provide fertile ground for rethinking the boundaries imposed by empire. Through the works of influential figures such as Michel Leiris, Jean Rouch, Amadou Hampâté Bâ, and Patrick Chamoiseau, the text illustrates how anthropology can transcend its historical ties to imperialism, allowing for creative experimentation and political commentary.

Ultimately, Experiments with Empire invites readers to engage with the intricate legacies of colonialism. Izzo argues that these artistic and scholarly endeavors not only critique imperial narratives but also inspire new ways of understanding and imagining democratic possibilities. By examining these creative intersections, the book offers a fresh perspective on the ongoing dialogues surrounding empire and its enduring impact on contemporary society.