Italian postcolonialism

This book examines the experiences of Italy's war in North Africa and the cultural differences between Italians and Africans. It is based on *Il deserto della Libia* by Mario Tobino, *Tempo di uccidere* by Ennio Flaiano, *Regina di fiori e di perle* by Gabriella Ghermandi, and *Asmara addio* by Erminia dell'Oro. The works of these four authors can be classified as postcolonial literature, a subject which is explored in greater detail. Furthermore, the history of Libya, Ethiopia and Eritrea is examined in depth. As the two male authors themselves served in North Africa during the Second World War, their own experiences are woven into their works, thereby giving the reader an insight into everyday life during the war. The two female authors belong to the second generation; consequently, the events of the war were conveyed to them only through narrative accounts. Further topics covered in this thesis include war crimes, racism, military equipment, as well as a description of the African resistance fighters and the local population.