Oscar Dathorne (19 November 1934 – 18 December 2007) was a remarkable Guyanese educator, novelist, poet, and critic. In fact, his contributions to Caribbean studies and literature are enduring.
Oscar Dathorne [Photo credit: Caribbean Literary Heritage
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Born in Georgetown, Guyana, Dathorne’s academic journey began at Queen’s College. In 1953, his family relocated to England, where he furthered his studies at the University of Sheffield.
He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in English in 1958, followed by his Master’s Degree in 1960, and ultimately his Ph.D. in English in 1966.
Despite his academic achievements, Dathorne faced challenges securing senior positions in English universities, leading him to seek opportunities abroad.
ACADEMIC CAREER
This Guyanese educator’s international academic career took him to Nigeria, where he taught at the University of Ibadan. He later held a full professorship at the University of Sierra Leone, where he headed the English department.
His teaching style, which incorporated African literature and emphasised the importance of African voices in literary discourse, garnered recognition and invitations to lecture at prestigious institutions such as Yale University.
He became a leading figure in African and African American studies in the United States. He joined Howard University in Washington, D.C., as a professor of African studies, later teaching at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
His tenure at Ohio State University and the University of Miami saw him establish and direct programs in African, Caribbean, and African-American studies. In 1987, he joined the English department at the University of Kentucky, where he continued to inspire students until his retirement in 2000.
LITERARY CONTRIBUTIONS
Dathorne’s literary contributions were diverse and impactful. He authored novels, poetry, and non-fiction works that explored themes of Caribbean identity, culture, and history. His editorial work on anthologies such as ‘Caribbean Narrative’ and ‘Caribbean Verse’ showcased the richness of Caribbean literature to a global audience.
LEGACY
Dathorne’s legacy extends beyond his academic and literary achievements. As the founding editor of the Journal of Caribbean Studies, he provided a platform for Caribbean scholars and writers to share their work and perspectives.
His role in establishing the Association of Caribbean Studies helped foster a community of scholars dedicated to advancing Caribbean studies worldwide.
References
- “Dathorne, Oscar Ronald”, in Michael Hughes, A Companion to West Indian Literature, Collins, 1979, o. 38.
- “In Memoriam | English”. english.as.uky.edu. Retrieved 20 Feb 2024.
- Leota S. Lawrence, “O. R. Dathorne” in Daryl Cumber Dance (ed.), Fifty Caribbean Writers: A Bio-bibliographical Critical Sourcebook, Greenwood Press, p. 134.
- https://sittingbull1845.blogspot.com/2014/01/black-social-history-afro-guyanes-oscar.html
