The Significance of the Name ‘Themba’ in GB Sinxo’s UNomsa

This paper examines the significance of the name ‘Themba’ in GB Sinxo’s novel titled UNomsa. This designation is based on the role played by and personality traits of the character who bears it in the novel. The origin and meaning of this label will be the subject of discussion in this discourse. The name is chosen as it has an impact on the personality traits of and the role played by the character who bears it. Also, it is vital in the development of the plot of the story. Even though there are other labels with an impact on the characters who bear them, names of such characters are not part of the discussion in this presentation, due to space constraints. These are designations such as ‘Nomsa’, ‘Nongendi’, ‘Velesazi’ and ‘Nomashwa’. The names of yet other characters, who are not considered for this presentation, do not have any importance regarding the personality traits of and role played by their bearers. These are labels of secondary or foil characters who play supportive or minor roles in the text. Even so, some of these personae will be referred to in the discussion, as they are associated with the character whose name is analyzed in the paper.