The nature of tragedy: an analysis with special reference to Tšhukudu

Abstract

In this article the nature of tragedy as it manifests itself in a Northern Sotho tragic text is investigated. After a discussion of the concept ‘tragedy’ several key elements of this concept are considered with specific reference to Tšhukudu by E.K.K. Matlala. These elements include aspects such as the world; the tragic action; the tragic hero; dramatic language as well as suffering. In the end it is shown that Matlala has indeed written a tragic text.