The functionality of character in the Northern Sotho narrative

Abstract

Character in the Northern Sotho narrative, at least in early written prose fiction, plays the role of a connecting thread that helps the reader to orient himself/herself amid the numerous and various details, as well as that of a means of classing and ordering particular motives in the narrative. This functional status of character not only promotes (in the reader) an awareness of the persistent struggle between good and evil (which is usually portrayed in the narratives) but also reflects on the didactic pursuits of the narrative in general.