Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela: Personality traits as depicted in selected isiXhosa poetry

Abstract

This article investigates the depiction of Nelson Mandela’s personality traits in selected isiXhosa poetry. The aspects of Mandela’s personality that feature prominently include his bravery, determination, humility, goodness, peace, and tactical skills. The theoretical framework that underpins this study will be discussed briefly after the introductory section. A short note on Mandela will be provided before a discussion is presented of the concept of personality in general and of Mandela’s personality traits in particular. The poetry works that are considered in this discussion include those by Sitole, Mkiva and Mtuze in Mtuze and Kaschula (1993); Satyo (1998); Ndlazulwana in Gebeda (1994); Shasha (1994); Nyamende in Nyamende, Dladloti, Hoho, Magibisela and Nkanunu (1995); Xozwa in Luwaca and Qamata (1995); Mbovane (2003), and Madlebe and Moto in Moropa (2005). Apart from a discussion of the personality traits of Nelson Mandela, the importance of the linguistic elements used in the depiction of these traits, will also be pointed out. The discussion of these elements will be integrated throughout the study.

S.Afr.J.Afr.Lang.,2008, 2