The role of language and cultural practices in portraying women in selected Vhavenda communities

Abstract

Gender inequality appears to be a universal problem especially in African countries. This inequality between men and women was also identified in the Vhavenḓa nation. The study investigated the socio-cultural content manifested and reflected in the composition and pragmatic use of Tshivenḓa folktales, proverbs, and the lexical items describing women’s behaviour. Literature reviewed covered worldview, African worldview, roles of Vhavenḓa women, studies related to language usage and gender, and folklore. Feminism theory was applied to review the empowerment of women and equal treatment between men and women in Vhavenḓa society. By examining African feminism, and Africana womanism theories, the study has confirmed that Vhavenḓa women need equal opportunities to redress patriarchal dominance while they follow their traditional culture. For instance, men and women should be respected in their respective positions while men still retain their authority as the head of the family. A mixed methods approach was applied in this study. Questionnaires and interviews were the instruments used to collect data from Vhavenḓa men and women. The study employed the purposive sampling technique. The quantitative method was used to present findings in graphs while the qualitative method was utilised to analyse data in narrative form. Findings indicated that gender inequality occurs in Vhavenḓa society as women are still under patriarchal practice which is dominated by men. The study will serve as an eye opener to African people to treat each other equally and with respect.