Final answer:
The complexity of the African novel's history stems from colonialism's impact on African societies, their history, and literature. African authors like Chinua Achebe have criticized the misrepresentation of Africa in Western literature and advocated for authentic African storytelling. Postcolonial legacies continue to influence African states and the global perception of African society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The history of the African novel is indeed a complex historical phenomenon, primarily due to the overarching influence of colonialism. The European colonialists not only altered the trajectory of African societies but also imposed their own narratives and biases on African history and its representation in literature. This distortion is reflected in the canon of African literature, where the authentic voices and experiences of African people were often marginalized or misrepresented.
One of the most vocal critics of this misrepresentation is Nigerian author Chinua Achebe, who challenged the portrayal of Africans in Western literature, specifically criticizing works like Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness'. Achebe argued that African writers must be at the forefront of telling their own stories to combat the 'single story' of Africa that has been perpetuated by colonialism. This includes examining how Africa has been historically rich in culture, technology, and economy, which contradicts the myths of Africa being a 'Dark Continent' and primitive society.
Colonialism has had a lasting impact on the writing of history and literature, as it often led to suppression and destruction of indigenous culture and knowledge. This control over historical narratives, coupled with political instability and the continuous grappling with postcolonial legacies, has greatly influenced African nations and the perception of African society on the global stage. Consequently, African writers and historians are now reclaiming and redefining their shared history and cultural identity, amidst a world that is still learning to appreciate the diversity and complexity of African narratives.