As a teacher of both French and African literature, I sought a field of study that I would be able to discuss in both of my classes. So, I decided to work on the use of masks in the initiation ceremonies in French speaking black Africa. Based on the above, my objectives are:
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To learn about culture in French speaking Africa through the use of African Art, especially the masks.
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To learn about initiation rites in black Africa.
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To establish parallels between initiation rites in Africa and the stages we go through socially and religiously.
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To analyze several African masks.
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To have the students create their own masks.
When describing the masks, my students and I will follow the methodology advocated by professor Jules David Prown. I will introduce the methodology of object analysis later in this paper (refer to unit activities).
