Critical Analysis of Contrast as a stylistic Device in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s Works

Abstract

This study critically examined contrast as a stylistic strategy employed in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s books: Nervous Condition, Book of Not and This Mournable Body. The objectives of the study were to analyze identity on contrast, determine class stratification on contrast and assess place where contrast is noted in the selected books. The main argument of this project is that: through presentation of contrast, the writer attempts to empower and motivate the disadvantaged in the selected books. The primary concern to this study is the way the author unleashes the potential of black people. She also shows what is expected of them by the society. The study examined the channel of acquiring wealth. One must be educated and be a male so as to be rich in a case one is an African. Opportunities are given to female characters if there are no male ones in the family. The writer demonstrates the reason to unmask the biased image of Africans and women in the colonial era. The study analyzed the traditions and beliefs that bar Africans progress. This study is useful material for reference to other researchers and readers. The study is guided by Karl Marx’s strategic conflict theory. The theory is about the competition of limited resources in the society. The study used textual analysis in analyzing the selected books. It was library based which involved intensive and extensive reading of the selected texts. The three books were selected using purposive sampling technique. The study advocated for the appropriate presentation of contrast so as to avoid being biased against people who should be valued in the society