Examining National Identity and Relationships through Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Adichie

Katie Willett, History, Independence High

Curriculum Unit (pdf)

Synopsis

Students will explore the themes of national identity and human relationships during a time of conflict as represented in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel, Half of a Yellow Sun. Students will consider what elements make up one’s identity as well as how humans relate to one another. Students will also be guided through a literary as well as historical analysis of Nigeria’s history to learn about how personal markers of identity can lead to national conflict.