Colonial Conflict and Cultural Symbolism in Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s The River Between

Abstract

The River Between by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o stands as a pivotal piece in African literature, probing into the intricacies of colonialism, cultural identity, and resistance in colonial Kenya. This article aims to offer a thorough literary-symbolic analysis of Ngũgĩ’s novel, particularly its portrayal of these themes. It focuses on the central symbols and characters, especially the river dividing the Gikuyu community, which represents the conflict between tradition and modernity. The river is used as a significant metaphor for the ideological and cultural rifts within the community. It symbolises both the physical and metaphorical separation between Kameno and Makuyu ridges, encapsulating the struggle to balance indigenous beliefs with colonial influences. The characters Waiyaki and Nyambura are analysed as representations of this tension, highlighting the personal and societal conflicts encountered while navigating between tradition and progress. Additionally, the circumcision ritual is discussed as a vital symbol of Gikuyu cultural identity and its role in the broader conflict between traditionalists and advocates of Westernisation. Through meticulous textual analysis and historical context, the article elucidates Ngũgĩ’s strategic use of language and symbolism to critique colonialism and celebrate the resilience of indigenous cultures. Thus, by integrating literary analysis with historical insights, the paper achieves a nuanced understanding of the novel’s themes, demonstrating how The River Between invites reflection on the complexities of cultural identity and resistance in the face of colonial oppression.