Swahili
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is set to host its 51st Inaugural Lecture this Friday, March 28, 2025, at Taifa Hall, Main Campus, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. The lecture, titled “We Are Not Mentally Ill: Deconstructing the ‘Mad Genius’ Trope in Literature,” will be delivered by Professor Peter Anyanga Wasamba, a distinguished scholar in Literature and Law.
Table of contents [Show]
Breaking the “Mad Genius” Stereotype
Prof. Wasamba’s lecture will critically analyze the long-standing “mad genius” trope in literature, challenging the societal notion that great intellect and creativity often come at the cost of mental instability. His research seeks to reframe the narrative, exploring how such portrayals impact both literature and real-world perceptions of creative individuals.
About the Speaker
Prof. Wasamba is a seasoned academic with a rich background in both Literature and Law. His credentials include:
BA Literature (1994, UoN)
MA Literature (1998, UoN)
PhD in Literature (2002, UoN)
LLB (2017, UoN)
LLM (2018, UoN)
Diploma in Law (Kenya School of Law)
As a Professor of Literature and Law Scholar, his interdisciplinary expertise uniquely positions him to offer an insightful perspective on the intersection of creativity, intellect, and mental health narratives in literature.
UoN’s Legacy of Inaugural Lectures
The Inaugural Lecture Series is a prestigious tradition at the University of Nairobi, providing a platform for professors to share their expertise and groundbreaking research with the academic community and the public. The 51st edition promises to be an intellectually stimulating session, attracting scholars, students, and literary enthusiasts.
Event Details:
Location: Taifa Hall, University of Nairobi Main Campus
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Attendees can expect a thought-provoking discussion that will challenge traditional narratives and inspire new ways of thinking about literature and mental health.
