Symbolism and imagery: an analysis of Bessie Bead's fictional works.

Abstract

This thesis is entitled "Symbolism and Imagery: An analysis of Bessie Head's fictional works." It examines the following four titles, A Question of Power, When Rain Clouds Gather, Maru and selected short stories from the anthology, The Collector of Treasures. The approach adopted in this study entails an appreciation of demonstration of the way symbols and images portray and and content individual texts. It further illustrates the nay images and symbols illuminate the totality of a work of literature with the manner in which the author handles and relates characters in various conflicts to bring about the meaning of the texts. The development of Bessie Head's fictional works can be traced and appreciated as a journey. The destination of the journey is geared towards the attainment of self-realization, human dignity and self esteem. Central to this lies man's strife with a hazardous, unpredictable environment. The image of the destructive nature looms large on the society. The cooperative movement symbolizes the conquest and triumph of man over nature. Oppressive forces which imperilment liberty include racial discrimination, sexual and ethnic prejudices. They are articulated by the author through symbolism. Darkness in the novels signifies agony and mental frustration of the individual. But the savoring spirit conceived in communal strength is the source of ultimate light and hope for emancipation in the society. In this struggle is borne a new awareness which seeks to make the society better than it was before. This is gained through the restoration of humanistic values of justice and liberty. The awareness is arrived at by the author through an effective exploration of symbols and character portrayal.