The depiction of masculinity in selected Sesotho drama texts

Abstract

This study intended to investigate the depiction of masculinity in selected Sesotho drama texts: Maake’s 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘦 (2015), Letshaba, 𝘓𝘦𝘫𝘸𝘦 𝘭𝘢 𝘬𝘨𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘰 (2015), and Mokhele’s 𝘋𝘪𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘰𝘩𝘰 (2015). The study employed a qualitative method and thematic analysis to explore the depiction of masculinity in the above selected Sesotho drama texts. The related literature review revealed a gap in the studies of scholars who have examined masculinity among the Basotho, particularly in the context of Sesotho drama texts. Literary masculinity theory was utilized to answer the research questions of this study. This study determined that hegemonic masculinity is depicted through the abuse of power, language that depicts masculinity, assassination, infidelity and aggression. This study contributes to the postgraduate studies within the fields of literature and masculinity to enrich the possibility of research in areas where these fields converge.