TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Easily understandable 

    Davidson created a film series which is clear and easy to follow. He organized the material in a way which allows scholars and the general public to become more knowledgable on the subject. Mazrui's is relatively easy to understand as well. However, sometimes he mentions words or names that are not previously explained. Gates approach is simple and directed toward a general audience making the series attractive to the novice.
 
 

• Entertainment value 

    For persons with an interest in Africa, Davidson's series will retain their attention. This elderly British documentarian may not attract younger viewers who do not initiate the experience with an open mind. But, it was a fascinating journey through Africa which anyone could appreciate and enjoy. Mazrui's series combined compelling narratives and engaging visuals. For a more emotional effect he sometimes also used music. Overall the series was interesting and thought-provoking. Although Gates is a Harvard scholar, he has the ability to convey his findings in a way that is both interesting and enticing. It sparks a curiosity to learn more on the topics he covered. Also the recent technological improvements make the visual effects superb. His willingness to try and directly experience all aspects of Africa also provide the viewer with a laugh or two. Anyone who watches this series will remember Gates buried in the sand or when he pushed his jeep through the desert sands.
 
 

• Informative 

    Davidson tells us much about Africa and its past. He uses a variety of sources such as archeological evidence, historical facts, interview, and quotes from ancient diaries of Africans and foreigners. Mazrui focuses on the issues facing the African continent. He presents information in the context of these issues. Gates gives glimpses into present day Africa, while going more in depth into its past. Though his aim seems to be to educate and entertain, we do not get a complete picture of Africa. It seems that some parts, while entertaining, lack depth.
 
 

• Scholarly methodology 

    We found Davidson's conclusions and his methods to be thorough and persuasive. His scientific methodology is particularly impressive. The vast resources he used support each of his arguments, making it difficult for another scholar to disagree with his findings. Mazrui's theme of the triple heritage gives a framework to the whole series. While he may not cite each of his sources, his findings are nevertheless based on historical facts. On the basis of these facts, he creates his own interpretation, which in turn addresses the issues and themes he discusses. Gates seemed to lack organization in his presentation. We followed his route throughout Africa, and learned the history of the visited areas along the way. If Gates had a thesis, it was not clear in his film series. There were also several instances where his role as documentarian seemed to change to an American tourist. Rather than facilitating an objective view of Africa, its cultures, and its people, he imposes Western judgement on his observations. While a scholar should try to remain as objective as possible, Gates constantly reiterates that he is an African-American and gives us his subjective interpretations.