“Benigna” in foggy Gnadental/Genadendal

Abstract

This article analyses the reception of the book Benigna van Groenekloof of Mamre (1873) in South African literary and historical compendiums and scientific articles, and is an attempt to determine its genre. This anonymous publication has been frequently – and incorrectly – presented as the oldest book in Afrikaans written by an author of colour. This contribution rectifies this misconception: discussing Benigna against its historical background, it introduces the text’s actual author as well specifies its language. Moreover, the article postulates that more attention in the history of South African literature should be paid to the religious literature of the Moravian Brethren.