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May Ayim: To Be Black
- Authors: Gavryusheva A.E.1
-
Affiliations:
- P.G.Demidov Yaroslavl State University
- Issue: No 8 (2024)
- Pages: 69-75
- Section: Culture, literature, art
- URL: https://rjpbr.com/0321-5075/article/view/647472
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.31857/S0321507524080084
- ID: 647472
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Abstract
The article considers the complexity of the search for identity by the Afro-Germans in the last quarter of the 20th century based on the life path of the prominent teacher, poetess and activist May Ayim. The author presents a number of stages of her literary, scientific and educational activities. And examines the specifics of May Ayim’s self-awareness in the creative direction, studying of legacy and resistance in her poems and essays, as well as the integration of her work into the German-language literary space. Drawing on her literary contributions, political activism, and struggles against racism and discrimination, this article sheds light on Ayim’s impact on the Afro-German community and her enduring legacy in the German literary landscape. The article examines the problems of perception of Afro-Germans in Germany at the turn of 1980-1990, as well as May Ayim’s personal contribution to activist activities in Germany. This research aims to celebrate Ayim’s personal contribution to Afro-German literature and to changing the situation regarding Africans and half-breeds in Germany.
Keywords
About the authors
Alexandra E. Gavryusheva
P.G.Demidov Yaroslavl State University
Email: alexandra-gavr@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0001-5819-5785
Senior Lecturer Yaroslavl, Russia
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