National Identity in South African Children's Literature

Bennett, Jessica

National Identity in South African Children's Literature

Master Thesis

2010

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

African Studies

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

National identity is an important characteristic of a country and helps to create a sense of national unity between its citizens. Identity is a learned concept that develops at a young age from children's surroundings and interactions. According to Martyn Barrett, this sense of National identity is present as early as the age of 5, with children gaining greater understanding of the significance of national identity to the age of 11. During this time period, picture books play a major role in childhood development. Using picture books to help create a positive, unified sense of national identity and multicultural understanding can help a nation to create a socially stable environment that influences political and economic development. In the case of South Africa, national identity has shifted since the end of the apartheid era, but how it is reflected within children's picture books? This mini-dissertation examines six different children's picture books to ascertain whether or not elements of national identity are included and if these elements are able to create a positive shift in national identity within South African society. The elements of national identity to be examined include, but are not limited to, South African plants and animals that are native/ unique to South Africa, important South African figures, shared history, multiculturalism, and also hope for the future. By examining these elements and other external influences, an image of South African national identity as represented in children's picture books is explored. This leads to an understanding of the role that children's picture books can play in the South African education system and child development.

Keywords

African Studies

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