“UMABHEJANE THE WITCH†AS PERCEIVED THROUGH THE EYES OF THE NARRATOR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25159/1016-8427/1671Abstract
The aim of this is article is to analyse the folktale “uMabhejane the Witch.†uMabhejane is depicted as a heartless witch who uses her evil powers against innocent people, especially the envoys that come to her house to ask for her daughter’s hand in marriage. Previous research on the folktale suggests that Mabhejane is a heartless witch who is jealous of her daughter who is getting married to a prince. Against this background, this paper grapples with the question: Is Mabhejane really jealous of her daughter or is she being overprotective of her daughter because she feels that her daughter is not yet ready to face the challenges of marriage, and particularly so, polygamous marriage? Contrary to previous research perspectives on Mabhejane, it is argued in this paper that Mabhejane is used as an example to demonstrate to young girls that outspoken and defiant women are not appreciated in society. Only witches behave in such a manner. According to tradition and patriarchy, an ideal wife is onethat is submissive and obedient to her husband and in-laws.
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