Afrikaner-mites, outobiografie en biografie

Abstract

The article researches a link between (Afrikaner) myths and the reflection of these myths in biographical and autobiographical works of prominent Afrikaners of the twentieth century. Within this context the term 'myth' is defined as a narrative (re)construction of group identity and values connected to man's search for "truth, meaning (and) significance" (Campbell in Flowers, 1988:5) in his life. This search contributes to a positive self-image within a group or nation and the establishment of group specific values. Special reference is made to the well-known Afrikaans writer/thinker and socially aware Maria Elizabeth Rothmann (M.E.R.). It is argued that both her autobiography (published in 1972) and the recent biography by J.C. Steyn, Die 100 jaar van MER (2004), reflect the impact of Afrikaner myths and their associated values. Finally it is suggested that Hermann Giliomee's The Afrikaners: biography of a people (2003) could also serve as an excellent source of further research into the same topic, namely the impact of Afrikaner myths and values as reflected within the context of a biographical work.