Revisiting the role of neighbours as reflected in the selected Sesotho drama texts

Abstract

The study investigates the role of neighbours portrayed in the selected Sesotho drama books, written by Mahalefele (1993), Mokete (1997) and Khaketla (1954). This qualitative study seeks to investigate the significant societal concerns that are portrayed in the selected literary works within the Functionalism Theory. The situations include emotional abuse, child abuse, and family negligence. The results show that neighbours, motivated by a desire to lend a hand and offer social support, are important players in stepping in during these trying times. Their efforts to increase awareness and provide affected families with hope define their engagement. The study also reveals that the positive effects of these treatments include lowering the victims’ stress levels, helping them to overcome obstacles more successfully and encouraging positive habits in the community. The positive impacts also involve reduced stress, success and positive behaviour. However, the study also notes adverse effects resulting from neighbourly initiatives. The negative impacts of neighbourly interventions comprise forced marriages and teenage pregnancies, which might result from cultural pressures or misunderstandings of support. Further, this study emphasises the difficult relationships that exist between family struggles and the networks of support in the community within the framework of selected Sesotho drama texts.