THE TYPOLOGICAL FORMATION OF DORIS LESSING’S SHORT STORIES

This article explores the typological and structural formation of two significant short stories by Doris Lessing — The Little Tembi and No Witchcraft for Sale. Although Lessing is widely recognized for her novels, her short fiction has received relatively little scholarly attention. This study addresses that gap by analyzing how these two stories from her African period reflect key social and psychological themes such as colonialism, racial inequality, cultural disconnection, and identity conflict. Using typological, structural, and contextual approaches, the article shows how Lessing uses both realist and modernist literary styles to depict the impact of colonial rule on individuals and society. In The Little Tembi, emotional distance and failed cross-cultural understanding reveal the limits of Western ideals when imposed on African contexts. In No Witchcraft for Sale, resistance to cultural exploitation is symbolized through Gideon’s refusal to share traditional healing knowledge. Both stories highlight the power dynamics of colonial societies and give voice to marginalized experiences. The article concludes that Lessing’s short stories serve not only as literary works but also as critical reflections on colonial history, cultural identity, and psychological struggle, making them valuable for further academic study.