Motifu Za Yatima Katika Hadithi Teule Za Watoto

ABSTRACT

This research aimed to investigate the motif of orphans in children’s written literature using selected Kiswahili Children stories. The study aimed at analyzing the situations in the portrayal of orphans in selected works of children’s literature. In addition, this research has made it possible to understand challenges that orphans face in the society. Moreover, the research aimed at elaborating how orphans liberate themselves from the challenges facing them in the society. This research was based on the tenets of the Archetype theory by Northrop Frye (1950-1954) and Realism theory by Georg Hegel which was later developed by Lukacs (1972) and Larkin (1977) as a guide to achieving the research’s objectives. This research used selected children stories written by different authors, thus; Mama wa Kambo (Kisovi, 2005), Yatima (Wamitila, 2006) and Mateso ya Johari (Ng’ang’a, 2006). These books were selected purposively. In addition, the orphan character was used as an archetype and a mouthpiece in children’s literature. This research was conducted in the library and involved the reading of books, journals, newspapers and a variety of theses so as to give the research a basis. The data collected was analyzed and the findings were presented alongside befitting examples following the objectives of the study. The study established that orphans go through a lot of difficulties in life. However, the study also established that the orphans save themselves from such suffering in two main ways. Firstly, through personal initiative and effort by way of, for instance, courageously facing the situation with a view to overcoming it or by determination and hard work as they work their way out of their predicament. Secondly, it could be at the societal level where a member of the society such as a neighbour or a well-wisher would be the one to save them. These circumstances together with the ways out of such circumstances are consistent with the theories that guided this investigation. The study recommends that more studies be carried out on the plight of orphaned children as depicted in other art forms such as poetry, plays and short stories. Beyond this, the study recommends that more studies to be done in the field besides this particular study that was essentially done in the library.