CHAPTER 17
Interpretation
We see that Mrs. Lithebe helps support Kumalo, as his suffering
is similar to that of his namesake St. Stephen.
Gertrude appears to get on well with Mrs. Lithebe, but she still
requires discipline, and there is a hint that she may not be able to put up with this situation on a long-term basis.
It is ironic that Kumalo has been able to communicate with his
son, even although it is under such unfortunate circumstances. Perhaps if he had found his son sooner, the tragedy of Jarvis’ death might not have happened.
At this stage, the reader only sees the negative side of
Absalom’s mindless act, but hopes that some good will come out of this dire situation.
Again Paton introduces yet another benevolent white man in the
form of Carmichael, a leading Johannesburg lawyer who will take the case free of charge.
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