The globalized other: Patterns of globalization and exclusion in 'Histoire de la femme cannibale' by Maryse Conde and 'Le Ventre de l'Atlantique' by Fatou Diome

The influence of globalization in contemporary society is widespread, generating spaces governed by international market forces rather than by local or national institutions and allowing the transmission of information and images to global audiences. Such phenomena seem to promote unprecedented deterritorialization and openness in that they obsolesce traditional boundaries. However, the economic forces shaping these new spaces and communications remain largely under the control of imperialist powers, allowing them to perpetuate practices of domination characteristic of colonialism. As Francophone authors, Maryse Conde and Fatou Diome often point out patterns of neo-colonialism, illustrating the extent to which global economies and media recreate colonial schemas of marginalization and exploitation. This thesis will explore intersections between globalization and neocolonialism in Histoire de la femme cannibale (2003) by Maryse Conde and Le Ventre de l'Atlantique (2003) by Fatou Diome, and the narratological strategies they employ in the face of such marginalizing influences.