Jikinya – Characterisation

Jikinya:

• Culturally adaptive
• Inquisitive
• Respectful
• Inquisitive
• Loyal
• sociable
• Caring
• Self-sacrificial
• Obedient
• Hardworking

She is a symbol of cultural integration and an embodiment of Ngaras customs, norms and myths

She is also the source of conflicts within the people of Ngara upon her arrival and later with the Changani before her death.

One might argue that the death of Jikinya is symbolical to the death of practice of Jikinya dance amongst the Shona.

Furthermore, she is viewed as an extension of the people of Ngaras hospitality and the flexibility of the Shona culture or customs as she is allowed to stay with the people despite the racial differences.

The integration of Jikinya into the village can be argued to be Geoffreys move to elevate the hospitable and welcoming Shona culture.