Characterisation of women through actions in a Tshivenḓa drama Ḽa ḓa hafha ḽi a kovhela by NE Sigogo: the contemporary democratic era

Abstract

Characters’ actions often reveal their true nature more accurately than their words or beliefs. Authors use character actions to depict personality traits, physical appearance and relationships in literary works, employing indirect characterisation. This article aims to explore how character actions depict women’s personality traits in the Tshivenḓa drama Ḽa ḓa hafha ḽi a kovhela (It will set before time) by Sigogo. Data was collected from this drama and analysed using textual analysis. The study aligns with Aristotle’s mimetic literary approach, emphasising the portrayal of reality in literature. The findings reveal that the drama portrays female characters in diverse roles, realistically reflecting societal norms and human behaviour. In this article, the author recommends that women embrace resilience and wisdom as foundational qualities in their personal and professional lives. This involves seeking education, advocating for their rights, and participating in decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities. Additionally, women should support one another in their journeys, fostering a network of empowerment that encourages growth and development.