Motherhood venerated in Zulu proverbs and folktales: The Africanawomanist approach

Abstract

The unprecedented incidents of woman and child abuse in South Africa indicate that there is animosity directed towards women and children. Even though women are subjected to demeaning acts of violence, they, especially mothers, still play an important role in holding the social cosmos intact and alive. This article argues that in African societies, specifically in Zulu communities, mothers are the pillars of society and the protectors of their children. The aim of this article is to argue that some proverbs and folktales serve as catalysts in elevating the status of women in society. This research aims to prove that some proverbs and folktales depict women as revered beings because they do whatever it takes to protect their children and the ones they hold dear to their hearts. The analysis of the argument is based on the Africana womanism theoretical framework as conceptualised by Hudson-Weems and which infuses African ideologies.