In Nthikeng Mohlele’s novel Small Things, the protagonist grapples with a profound internal conflict that mirrors the complexities of post-apartheid South Africa. This essay examines the internal struggles faced by the protagonist, focusing on themes of identity, morality, and societal expectations. Through this exploration, we gain insight into the broader human experience and the specific challenges of navigating life in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.
Identity Crisis
At the heart of the protagonist’s internal conflict is an identity crisis. The unnamed protagonist is a writer who finds himself alienated in a society that seems to have lost its way. His struggle to define himself in a world that constantly shifts its values and norms is a central theme in the novel.
- Search for Meaning: The protagonist’s quest for meaning is evident in his introspective nature. He is constantly questioning his place in the world and his purpose in life. This search for identity is complicated by his disillusionment with society and his feeling of being out of place.
- Cultural Displacement: The protagonist feels culturally displaced in a Johannesburg that has undergone significant changes. The remnants of apartheid and the new challenges of a democratic society create a backdrop of confusion and loss. This cultural displacement exacerbates his internal struggle, as he tries to reconcile his past with the present.
Moral Ambiguity
The protagonist’s internal conflict is further intensified by moral ambiguity. Throughout the novel, he is faced with decisions that challenge his moral compass, revealing his deep-seated insecurities and uncertainties.
- Moral Relativity: The protagonist grapples with the idea that morality is not absolute but relative. His interactions with various characters, each with their own moral codes, force him to confront his own beliefs and values. This relativity causes internal turmoil as he struggles to maintain a sense of right and wrong in a world that often blurs these lines.
- Personal vs. Societal Ethics: The protagonist’s personal ethics often clash with societal expectations. He is critical of the corruption and moral decay he perceives around him, yet he is not immune to these influences. His internal conflict is a reflection of the larger societal struggle to find a moral footing in a post-apartheid context.
Societal Expectations
Societal expectations play a significant role in the protagonist’s internal conflict. The pressure to conform to societal norms and the expectations placed upon him as an individual contribute to his sense of disillusionment and inner turmoil.
- Expectations of Success: The protagonist feels the pressure to succeed in a materialistic society. His struggle to find success on his own terms, rather than those dictated by society, leads to feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
- Role of the Writer: As a writer, the protagonist grapples with the expectation to be a voice for change and to contribute to the cultural and political discourse. This responsibility weighs heavily on him, exacerbating his internal conflict as he questions the impact and relevance of his work.
Reflection of Broader Themes
The protagonist’s internal conflict is not just a personal struggle but a reflection of broader themes in the novel. Small Things uses the protagonist’s inner turmoil to comment on the human condition and the societal challenges faced in post-apartheid South Africa.
- Human Condition: The protagonist’s existential crisis and search for meaning are universal themes that resonate with readers. His internal conflict highlights the common human struggle to find purpose and navigate moral complexities.
- Post-Apartheid Challenges: The novel addresses the lingering effects of apartheid and the difficulties of transitioning to a democratic society. The protagonist’s internal conflict serves as a microcosm of the broader societal struggles, illustrating the complexities of identity, morality, and societal expectations in this context.
Conclusion
In Small Things, Nthikeng Mohlele masterfully portrays the internal conflict of the protagonist, using his struggles to explore themes of identity, morality, and societal expectations. The protagonist’s journey is a poignant reflection of the broader human experience and the specific challenges of life in post-apartheid South Africa. Through his internal turmoil, the novel offers a deep and nuanced understanding of the complexities of navigating a rapidly changing world, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read.
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