Ubuntu, an Imperative Fingerprint of Morality in African Literature: A Case of Selected Works of J.J Thwala and O.K Matsepe
Masila Joshua Masipa 
, Nontokozo Mdhluli & Lekau Eleazar Mphasha
Issue: Vol.5 No. 10 December 2024 Article 7 pp.460-471
DOI : https://doi.org/10.38159/jelt.20245107 | Published online 24th December, 2024.
© 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
The deep influences of ubuntu, a traditional African philosophy that emphasizes community and unity, are examined in this paper as a significant factor in the creation of the moral landscape in African literature. Ubuntu, which is sometimes translated as “I am because we are,” demonstrates a communal ethic that emphasizes individual cooperation within a group. This study looked at how ubuntu is portrayed and examined in African literary works across a range of genres and eras. The analysis focused on how ubuntu serves as a moral compass, influencing characters’ actions, relationships, and ethical decisions in African literature. Through a comprehensive examination of select literary works of J.J. Thwala and O.K. Matsepe, this paper elucidates how ubuntu shapes the moral dilemmas, conflicts, and resolutions depicted in the narratives. This paper serves as a critical analysis of the moral values found in African literature, making it a valuable tool for analyzing moral narratives and providing readers with a means of gaining a deeper understanding of the complex moral situations presented in these literary works. It is clear that ubuntu is an important moral legacy in African literature, as evidenced by the works of writers such as J. J. Thwala and O. K. Matsepe. Through their stories, these writers contribute to the preservation and development of ubuntu as a long-lasting and universal ethical paradigm in African literary tradition.
Keywords: African literature. Community. Figurative. Kindness. Literal. Moral.
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Dr. Masila Joshua Masipa is an accomplished educator and academic who began his career in education in 1986 as a teacher at V.P Manthata Senior secondary school. Over the years, he demonstrated remarkable leadership and was promoted to various significant roles, starting as a Head of Department (HOD) for Languages, followed by Deputy Principal, and ultimately becoming Principal in 2010. Throughout his career in school leadership, Dr. Masipa contributed to the growth and development of educational institutions. In addition to his administrative roles, Dr. Masipa has played a pivotal part in the examination sector. He served as an examiner, Senior Examiner, and later as Deputy Chief Examiner for Northern Sotho Paper 1, showcasing his expertise in the field of education and assessment. Dr. Masipa expanded his influence in the academic world when he joined the University of Venda in 2015 as a lecturer. His scholarly work includes several written articles that add to the body of knowledge in his field. His contributions to both education and academic research reflect his commitment to advancing learning and fostering excellence in the educational landscape.
Ms. Nontokozo Gladys Mdhluli started her career in 2013 as a teacher at Siphumelele Secondary School, where she established her love for language development and education. She began working at the University of Venda as a Siswati lecturer on June 1, 2022. Currently pursuing a doctorate, Ms. Mdhluli is actively involved in Siswati language and culture study, language development, and writing academic articles. Her efforts greatly enhance the intellectual and cultural legacy of Siswati and play a crucial role in its promotion and preservation.
Dr. Lekau Eleazar Mphasha is a South African linguist and scholar who is connected to the University of Venda. He focuses in African folklore and Northern Sotho linguistics. His studies cover topics such as compound nouns, the cultural function of folktales, and the importance of taboos and proverbs in Northern Sotho culture. Mphasha has also looked at how indigenous languages are used in legal and medical settings, highlighting how crucial they are to maintaining cultural identity and tackling social issues. By highlighting the relationship between language, culture, and social norms, his work significantly advances our knowledge and appreciation of African languages.
Masipa, Masila Joshua, Nontokozo Mdhluli, and Lekau Eleazar Mphasha .”Ubuntu, an Imperative Fingerprint of Morality in African literature: A Case of Selected Works of J.J Thwala and O.K Matsepe .” Journal of Education and Learning Technology 5, no.10 (2024): 460-471. https://doi.org/10.38159/jelt.20245107
© 2024 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
