Developmental trends in Setswana literature
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Date
1998-10
Authors
Seekoe, Phokwane Wilhelminah
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State (South Campus)
Abstract
A Marxist literary theory is used in this study. The aim of this study is to evaluate some
Setswana novels using a developmental approach. The time frame of this study will
extend from the time the missionaries came to South Africa until 1994. Karl Marx's
background has been discussed. The following Marxist models are explained, i.e.
reflection model, production model, genetic model, negative knowledge model and
language centred models. An explanation of some Marxist concepts, e.g. ideology,
dialectic, base, superstructure, reification and alienation have been given (Chapter 1).
Three Marxist models are used, namely reflection, production and genetic. These
models are used in the discussion of Mokwena. Rammone wa Kgalagadi and
Motimedi. The study highlights how missionaries manipulated Setswana literary
creativity in an attempt to promote Christianity and how some Setswana authors
resisted the attempt to make Setswana literature instruments for Christianising people
(Chapter 2).
The development of the following novels: Sephaphati, Matlhoko, Matlhoko and
Masego are discussed. Three Marxist models are utilised in the evaluation of these
novels, namely reflection, production and genetic although the Government also
harnessed Setswana literary creativity in an attempt to promote their ideology, some
Setswana authors nevertheless resisted these attempts by the government (Chapter
3).
Explanation of the findings of the aim of the study is given. Mokwena primarily
addresses its Christian readers (Batswana). Rammone wa Kgalagadi highlights the
traditional world and westernised Christian world. Motimedi focuses on hardships
experienced by Blacks, though Christianity also plays a role when the main character
is converted. Sephaphati focuses on the Christian world and the westernised world.
Matlhoko, Matlhoko highlights the implementation of the segregation acts in South
Africa before 1994. Masego focuses on the impact of the oppressive laws of South
Africa prior to 1994. The conclusion illustrates how Setswana authors were influenced
by their traditional, cultural, religious and socio-economic background in writing the
novels that I have evaluated (Chapter 4).
Description
Keywords
Tswana literature, Tswana literature -- History and criticism, Tswana literature -- Study and teaching, Dissertation (M.A. (African Languages))--University of the Free State, 1998