Matsalwa-nomo eka mintsheketo ya Xitsonga (Orality in Xitsonga folklore texts)

Abstract

Oral literature is a rich and diverse form of storytelling and cultural expression that plays a vital role in preserving and transmitting knowledge and traditions within various communities. Oral literature relies heavily on the spoken word and musical expression. It serves as a vital vehicle for transmitting cultural knowledge, values, history and beliefs within a community. Oral literature includes a diverse array of genres, such as myths, legends, folktales, epics, proverbs, riddles and songs. This study seeks to investigate the significance of oral literature as an aspect of culture and highlight the significance of oral literature among the Vatsonga. It will add value to the existing body of knowledge regarding the use of arts and culture, particularly to the future generation. Oral traditional literature summarises the traditional knowledge, beliefs, and values about the environment and nature of the society itself. It involves many genres of linguistic expression, and can perform various functions in society. Thus, oral traditional literature creates a sense of awareness among the Vatsonga, making them conscious of themselves, other human beings, their environment as well as their history. Stories, songs, proverbs, riddles and jokes in oral literature use colourful words and vivid images to describe human beings, their feelings and their behaviour towards one another. The study will also clarify the history and the importance of the oral traditional literature amongst the Vatsonga culture. The findings of the study are that oral literature plays a vital role in different socio-cultural, economic and religious aspects of life. It also functions as a transmitter of indigenous knowledge; and a source of knowledge through the use of aspects of folklore such as proverbs, these proverbs transmit and preserve some of their highest achievements such as knowledge, skills and attitudes. Finally, folklore can assist in training children to emulate good behaviour in order for them to eschew moral dilemmas in the future.