Shaka

(CHAKA, TSHAKA). (Ca 1787-1828) The most legendary of the Zulu kings, a military genius who revolutionized African warfare and subdued a large part of the sub-continent. Murdered by his brother Dingane, who then assumed the kingship. A number of novels (notably Mofolo's famous work), epic poems (e.g. by B.W. Vilakazi) and plays have been written on his life. The plays include Shaka by Sam Gorey, Tshaka Seripa sa I, II and III (“Tshaka Chapters 1, 2 and 3)” by E.K.K. Matlala, Ukufa kukaShaka (Zulu) by E. Zondi, Xaka (Tsonga) by S.J. Baloyi, Bayede-Shaka: The Spear is Born by Edmund 'Muzie" Mhlongo **) and Kwadedangendlale by M. Khumalo, an opera based on Vilakazi's epic poem. An epic television series about his life, was also made on his life for the SABC by Bill Faure, introducing and starring Henry Cele as Shaka. It was entitled Shaka Zulu **? and was first broadcast in 199*.

Sources

De Beer, 1995

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