Chaka is a legendary historical novel that tells the story of Shaka Zulu, the iconic and controversial Zulu king who rose from a troubled childhood to become a powerful and feared ruler in southern Africa. Written by Lesotho-born author Thomas Mofolo, the novel blends history, myth, and morality, portraying Chaka’s rise to power, his military genius, and his eventual descent into tyranny and spiritual torment.
Mofolo’s Chaka is more than a heroic tale—it is a deep reflection on ambition, leadership, and the cost of power. The novel critiques both traditional practices and colonial influences, making it one of the earliest African literary works to bridge oral storytelling with written form.
It stands as a foundational text in African literature and has been praised for its poetic language, cultural depth, and complex portrayal of a historical figure still debated today.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.