Abstract
M.A.
This study is a critical assessment and analysis of Xhosa poetry that addresses
social and political concerns with particular reference to the poetry of Qangule
(1970), Mtuze (1982, 1990) and Xozwa (1994 ). Chapter one introduces the
study by presenting its aim, scope, method of research, theory, definition of
concepts and significance of the study.
Chapter 2 focuses on the theoretical framework of the study. It discusses the
theory of Marxism, which is used as a basis of this study, by explaining the
concept of Marxism, its historical background, assumptions, methodology and
Marxism and poetry.
Chapter 3 deals with social concerns that are addressed by Mtuze (1982 and
1990) and Xozwa (1994 ). These social concerns are divorce and alcohol usage.
The discussion in this chapter focuses on how divorce affects members of the
family concerned, especially children of divorced parents. It also looks at how
alcohol is used in society. While the discussion in this chapter acknowledges
moderate use of alcohol, it focuses more on how this substance may also be
abused. It looks at how alcohol abuse affects individuals and society
economically and how dangerous it is to the health and lives of people.
Chapter 4 focuses on political concerns as addressed by Qangule (1970) and
Mtuze (1982). It assesses and analyses poems that address the oppression of
black people during the apartheid regime in South Africa. Concerns like
citizenship and deprivation of freedom, labour conditions and language are
discussed in this chapter.
Chapter 5 is a concluding statement which gives a summary of the study,
evaluation of Xhosa poetry with regard to addressing the concerns discussed in
the study and recommendations regarding future research.