One of the most prominent figures in the history and development of the African novel is Chinua Achebe. His work was revolutionary as it presented a true picture of African society before and during colonialism. Another important writer is Ngugi wa Thiong'o. He has been vocal about the importance of writing in African languages and his novels often touch on the political and cultural struggles in Africa. Then there is Buchi Emecheta, who has written about the experiences of women in African society, highlighting their challenges and strength.
Some important figures in the history of African fiction are Chinua Achebe, as mentioned before. His work was crucial in presenting African culture to the international world. Ngugi wa Thiong'o has been important for his political and cultural critiques in his fiction. Also, Bessie Head, a Botswanan writer, who wrote about the lives of the marginalized in Africa. Her works add depth to the understanding of African society in the context of African fiction history.
One important figure is Miguel de Cervantes. His 'Don Quixote' is considered a milestone in the history of novels. Another is Jane Austen, known for her novels about English society and relationships. Charles Dickens is also crucial. His works like 'Oliver Twist' and 'Great Expectations' depicted the social issues of his time vividly.
The African novel has a long - developing history. It started to take shape as Africans became more literate. One factor was the spread of Western education which brought new writing techniques. But African novelists quickly adapted these to tell their own stories. For instance, Buchi Emecheta focused on the experiences of African women in her novels, highlighting the social, cultural and economic challenges they faced.
Will Eisner is an important figure. His work laid the foundation for modern graphic novels. Alan Moore is also key. His works like 'Watchmen' are highly regarded. Art Spiegelman with 'Maus' is significant too as it dealt with serious topics in a unique graphic novel format.
Osamu Tezuka is a very important figure. He is often credited as the pioneer of modern anime. His works, like 'Astro Boy', set the foundation for many anime storytelling elements. Another important figure is Hayao Miyazaki. His movies from Studio Ghibli, such as 'Princess Mononoke' and 'Howl's Moving Castle', are known for their beautiful art and deep themes. Also, Akira Toriyama, the creator of 'Dragon Ball', had a huge impact on the shonen genre of anime.
Jose Rizal is a very important figure. His works, like 'Noli Me Tangere' and 'El Filibusterismo', are not only important in Philippine fiction but also in the fight for independence. Nick Joaquin is also significant, known for his works that explore Filipino culture and history. Another is F. Sionil Jose, whose novels often deal with social and political issues in the Philippines.
There are quite a few. Zora Neale Hurston is a well - known author. Her works, such as 'Their Eyes Were Watching God', are a great contribution. Ralph Ellison with 'Invisible Man' is also crucial. These authors have each added unique perspectives to the African American novel's history.
Richard Wright is important. His novel 'Native Son' was a powerful exploration of race and poverty. Toni Morrison is also a key figure. Her works like 'Beloved' are deeply moving and complex examinations of African American history and identity. Zora Neale Hurston with 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is another significant writer.
One important figure is Will Eisner. He is often considered a pioneer in the field. His work influenced generations of graphic novel creators. Another is Alan Moore. His complex and thought - provoking stories, like 'Watchmen', have had a huge impact on the development of graphic novels.
I'm not sure there are specific 'figures' in the traditional sense in the early parts like the Big Bang era. But for the part related to human history, scientists like Charles Darwin are important as he explained evolution.