African literature encompasses a diverse range of written and oral works produced by authors from the African continent. It includes various genres such as poetry, novels, short stories, and plays, reflecting the rich cultural, social, and political landscapes of different African societies. Notable themes often include identity, colonialism, and the struggle for independence. The literature is often influenced by indigenous languages and traditions, as well as colonial languages like English, French, and Portuguese. Prominent authors include Chinua Achebe, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, and Nadine Gordimer, whose works have gained international recognition and contributed to the global literary canon.