“Culture of Resistance” in the Apartheid System in South Africa as represented in Peter Horn`s Poetry

Abstract

This research aims to explore the concept of resistance against the apartheid regime in South Africa. The theoretical framework of the research concentrates on Edward Said`s theory of cultural imperialism and his perspectives on resistance during colonialism, then it negotiates the culture of resistance according to the mentality of the South African citizens, especially the black majority. The theory is derived from the tough practices of the imperial powers that invaded South Africa for decades. Accordingly, the movement of resistance in this country during the apartheid system was established by the freedom claim of pioneer fighters who took upon themselves to start the resistance movement. The research also focuses on the heroic role Nelson Mandela and his remarkable effort to regain South African dignity and put an end to colonial oppression. The research further discusses the impact of resistance on Peter Horn`s poetry, and how he manages to portray the crisis with its possible solution and the way out of the maze of colonialism and subjugation. Unlike many South African poets who reflected the dilemma of the apartheid regime, Horn was the one who declared many solutions to put an end to the harsh policies implemented by the South African governments.