The Signifying Monkey

By Henry Louis Gates Jr.,

Book cover of The Signifying Monkey: A Theory of African-American Literary Criticism

Book description

Henry Louis Gates, Jr.'s original, groundbreaking study explores the relationship between the African and African-American vernacular traditions and black literature, elaborating a new critical approach located within this tradition that allows the black voice to speak for itself. Examining the ancient poetry and myths found in African, Latin American, and…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked The Signifying Monkey as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

The Signifying Monkey is the groundbreaking theoretical study of the role of folklore in African American literature.

I could not put it down when I first read it. It was required reading for my literature students. I have probably quoted it in at least four essays. Gates is, of course, the leading scholar of African American literature. He set the standard for all of us who write and teach in this field. 

From Daryl's list on African American folklore.

Want books like The Signifying Monkey?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like The Signifying Monkey.

Browse books like The Signifying Monkey

Book cover of Invisible Man
Book cover of The Music of Black Americans: A History
Book cover of Mules and Men

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,206

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in folklore, African Americans, and African American authors?

Folklore 380 books
African Americans 808 books