Table of Contents
An Analysis of Tomorrow's People By Raised Baya: Scene 5
The scene focuses on Yakhani's home. It opens with yakhani's mother, referred to as Mother, rearranging the furniture. This action is symbolic as Mother is one of the characters who are determined to change the status quo by challenging the tribal and political stereotypes prevailing in the society.
Themes
The scene explores ethnicity-based stereotypes. Ndiweni's refusal to let yakhani continue with her relationship with Nimrod is based on the stereotype that everyone from the Shona ethnic group is "popularised by corruption." This portrays Ndiweni as a character with poor judgement because he fails to make a distinction between individuals. He believes that "bonke bayafanana" (they are all the same). It is ironic that Ndiweni does not even know who his daughter's boyfriend is as he asks "who is Nimrod." This question exposes him as a shallow character who is driven by a wave of stereotype and prejudice.
Violence is also a theme in this scene. While there is no actual violence taking place, the props suggest impending violence as Ndiweni is shown carrying a weapon (knobkerrie) with the intention to confront someone.
Patriarchal authority emerges as a theme in this scene. The atmosphere changes suddenly and becomes tense as Ndiweni utters interrogative sentences. He disassociates himself from his daughter, signalling his disapproval of her relationship with Nimrod. He uses the phrase "your daughter" when referring to Yakhani his daughter. This reveals a nuanced gender based stereotype whereby women are associated with and blamed for bad behaviour of their children.
Characterisation
Ndiweni
Ndiweni is portrayed as a traditionalist, authoritarian and protective. He bases his judgements on established prejudices and is skeptical of Nimrod's financial stability and ability to provide as he asks, does he [Nimrod] have a good job?" Ndiweni is also concerned about what he considers as a compromise in terns of his political affiliation. In his view, marriages between members of the opposition and members of the ruling party should not occur. He characterises the ruling party as being defined by "mismanagement, wheeling and dealing." His sweeping judgements reveal his deep seated biases anchored on ethnic stereotypes.
Mother
Mother is portrayed as a calm and collected character. Her words, "sit down and rest" go beyond Ndiweni's need to rest physically. She realises that he also needs to rest emotionally. She immediately changes the subject and talks about Ndiweni's day at work instead of dwelling on a negative discussion.
Mother is portrayed as a beacon of hope amid tension. Her role as a voice of reason gives informed analysis and judgement of individuals. Her judgement is influenced by facts, unlike her husband who is clouded by stereotypes. She boldly states that "Nimrod sounds and acts different." This statement suggests that Mother is an observant character. Her character provides an optimistic outlook amid chaos and negativity. By being a foil to Ndiweni, she illuminates Ndiweni's character by providing a sharp contrast. As the scene comes to the end, Ndiweni's violent and intolerant character comes our vividly as he is seen grabbing his knobkerrie and storming out, an indication that he is a violent character. Mother continues with her placid stance as she pleads with Ndiweni. The ending of this scene creates a gloomy atmosphere. It also foreshadows the violence that takes later in the play.
Style
Universal Character Name Mother
The use of the universal name, Mother, is symbolic. It suggests that she represents more than just an individual. She embodies a generation of people who share her values. As a caring and understanding mother, she represents the idealised qualities of "tomorrow's people.'
Props
The knobkerrie
The Knobkerrie symbolises violence and ethnic clashes between the Ndebele and Shona ethnic groups.
The Furniture
The furniture that is arranged by Mother at the beginning of the scene symbolises the aspects of the society that need to be adjusted in order to achieve a harmonious society. Mother's role in reorganising the furniture metaphorically emphasises her desire to challenge the existing social and political order.
Motif
Pregnancy
This motif reveals the theme if cultural identity versus -intercultural understanding. It also highlights the theme of family loyalty versus individual happiness whereby daughters have to choose between making their families happy or themselves happy through choosing their marriage partners. By extension, this motif suggests the birth of a new era; an era that transcends ethnic boundaries. The pregnancy in question involves people from different ethnic groups, symbolising hope for a fresh and positive future. However, retrogressive characters threaten to "kill" this symbolic child.
Comments