THE GOSPEL AND THE GRIOT: MISSIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES ON STORYTELLING IN POST-APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICAN LITERATURE

This paper seeks the intersection of missiology and post-apartheid South African literature, focusing on how spiritual and religious themes are intricately woven into narratives that address the complex realities of a society transitioning from apartheid. Through a comparative analysis of secular and missiological interpretations of key literary works, the study reveals how literature serves not only as a medium for social critique but also as a powerful tool for theological reflection, contributing to both personal and collective processes of healing and reconciliation. By examining the roles of storytelling, narrative theology, and Christian imagery in texts by authors such as Zakes Mda, Antjie Krog, and J.M. Coetzee, the study demonstrates the potential of literature to engage with faith and identity in ways that are transformative for both individuals and communities. The research emphasises the challenges and opportunities of integrating missiological perspectives into literary studies, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of the role of literature in shaping post-apartheid South African society.