The aim of this study is to analyse and interpret L.Z. Sikwane's play: Matshediso from the perspective of didascalies. The study comprises five chapters. The aim, scope and methods of research are outlined and motivated in chapter one. In chapter two, an overview of the research into didascalies is undertaken. Questions such as: "what are didascalies?" "how do didascalies in a play help produce meaning and shape?" etc. are dealt with. Later, the study shows how didascalies are linked to the other structural elements of drama such as theme; plot; characters and setting. In chapter three an analysis and interpretation of Matshediso from the perspective of the importance of didascalies is undertaken. This analysis focuses on the plot; didascalies and characters; didascalies and space; and didascalies, props, and set. Limitations characterizing performance are also dealt with. In chapter four, an integrated interpretation of Matshediso is provided. Thereafter a set of guidelines for performing the play is developed. This covers aspects such as: stage setting; the characters; dialogue; sound and costume. Chapter five sum up the main findings of the study and the value of the didascalies approach. By way of conclusion, I argue that Sikwane has not just written a play, but also pictured how it should be performed. This is confirmed by the didascalies included in this play and the value of the didascalies approach. / M.A., African Languages, Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, 2002

The aim of this study is to analyse and interpret L.Z. Sikwane's play: Matshediso from the perspective of didascalies. The study comprises five chapters. The aim, scope and methods of research are outlined and motivated in chapter one. In chapter two, an overview of the research into didascalies is undertaken. Questions such as: "what are didascalies?" "how do didascalies in a play help produce meaning and shape?" etc. are dealt with. Later, the study shows how didascalies are linked to the other structural elements of drama such as theme; plot; characters and setting. In chapter three an analysis and interpretation of Matshediso from the perspective of the importance of didascalies is undertaken. This analysis focuses on the plot; didascalies and characters; didascalies and space; and didascalies, props, and set. Limitations characterizing performance are also dealt with. In chapter four, an integrated interpretation of Matshediso is provided. Thereafter a set of guidelines for performing the play is developed. This covers aspects such as: stage setting; the characters; dialogue; sound and costume. Chapter five sum up the main findings of the study and the value of the didascalies approach. By way of conclusion, I argue that Sikwane has not just written a play, but also pictured how it should be performed. This is confirmed by the didascalies included in this play and the value of the didascalies approach. / M.A., African Languages, Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, 2002