Abstract
The objective of this study is to highlight the preservation and modification of culture in the context of African language literature, particularly in the media, with specific reference to Isibaya, an isiZulu television drama series. The study is guided by cultural studies theory, which questions the role of media in the illustration of cultures. This theory is used to investigate various cultural elements of the isiZulu television drama series. The study focuses on the following cultural aspects: coming-of-age rituals, marriage rituals, healing and burial rituals, and polygyny marriage. The qualitative research methodology serves as a research method for this study. These cultural aspects are studied from Gibson, Markgraaff, Mahlatsi, and Stewart's television drama series, Isibaya (2013). The series mentioned above was thus employed to gather data. The study's findings reveal that African communities have a high level of ritual and culture preservation. Analysing the coming-of-age and marriage ceremonies reveals that performing these rituals is a crucial component of amaZulu identity. It gives them a sense of pride and represents their culture. It also emerged that modernity has brought about modifications in the way these rituals are performed. Many amaZulu communities, however, continue to prioritise their maintenance. As part of the ritual renaissance, it is revealed that there is a considerable amount of enculturation taking place throughout Africa, particularly in terms of traditional healing practices. Furthermore, it reveals the prevalence of polygyny marriage among the amaZulu people. Importantly, it has been discovered that there are extensive teachings on what constitutes this type of marriage and the principles that must be upheld for those who seek to participate in it. Despite the growing influence of Western culture, it is discovered that many of Africans are committed to preserving their culture and identity. It is anticipated that the study's findings will contribute to efforts to preserve African culture and African literature in South Africa.