Prof. Wole Soyinka (born 13 July 1934) is a Nigerian playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first African to receive the award. His works explore themes of oppression, freedom, and human dignity.


NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE:
In 1986, Soyinka became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, a historic achievement that brought international recognition to African literature. The Nobel Committee recognized him "who in a wide cultural perspective and with poetic overtones fashions the drama of existence."

LITERARY WORKS:
Soyinka has published over 30 books including plays, novels, poetry collections, and essays. His notable works include "Death and the King's Horseman," "A Dance of the Forests," "The Man Died," "Aké: The Years of Childhood," and "The Interpreters."

POLITICAL ACTIVISM:
Throughout his career, Soyinka has been a vocal critic of authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses. He was imprisoned for 22 months during the Nigerian Civil War for his criticism of the government.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION:
Soyinka's works have been translated into numerous languages and have been performed and studied worldwide. He has received numerous awards including the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award and honorary doctorates from universities worldwide.

LEGACY AND INFLUENCE:
Wole Soyinka's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. As the first African Nobel Laureate in Literature, he opened doors for African writers globally. His works have inspired generations of African writers and have contributed to the global recognition of African literature.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 13 July 1934 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
- Education: University of Ibadan, University of Leeds, UK (English Literature).
- Key Achievement: First African to win Nobel Prize in Literature (1986).
- Publications: Over 30 books including plays, novels, poetry, and essays.
- Awards: Nobel Prize in Literature, Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, numerous honorary doctorates.
- Notable: Imprisoned for 22 months for political activism during Nigerian Civil War.
- Impact: Inspired generations of African writers, brought global recognition to African literature.
- Recognition: Works translated into numerous languages, studied worldwide.