Exploring Intersex and Homosexuality in Sibiya’s isiZulu Novel Inkululeko Engakhululekile (2020): A Literary Analysis
Abstract
Literary works often mirror the complexities of real life and the diverse lived experiences of communities in a fictitious way. Even though it is fiction, authors analyse lives lived by real people in communities and then develop fiction stories. Homosexuality and intersex are the realities lived by people in communities, a reality that most researchers shy away from. This article explores how Sibiya portrays these themes in a novel entitled Inkululeko Engakhululekile (2020). The focus is more on the portrayal of intersex, which is a rarely spoken reality of minority people. Furthermore, the article examines how the novel integrates cultural traditions with queer identities, challenging conventional narratives and fostering a deeper understanding of inclusivity. The analysis is grounded in queer theory which advocates for the deconstruction of binary notions of gender and sexuality while emphasizing the fluidity of identity. The article first presents the context of intersex and homosexuality within the broader societal and cultural framework, followed by a discussion of the methodology of the article. It then delves into how Inkululeko Engakhululekile (2020) portrays the intersection of queer identities and isiZulu culture, shedding light on the diversity within the LGBTQI+ community and the transformative potential of literature in addressing these themes. This is essential for educating people about the existence of diversity amongst the LGBTQI+ community.
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