Analysis

An analysis of David Evans’ short story “The Silver Bell” tells us that the story follows a traditional plot structure with non-linear elements. The story takes place shortly after the first democratic elections in South Africa. It focuses on Mrs Mackenzie’s inner conflict, caused by the changing relationship between white and non-white South Africans.

The characters include Mrs Mackenzie, Lisa, and Beauty Nomathandi Mkize. The story also refers to the well-known South African politicians Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk. Both Mrs Mackenzie and Lisa represent the views of their respective generations and are symbolic of two different attitudes regarding racial equality.

The events take place in South Africa, in Mrs Mackenzie’s home. The social setting explores aspects related to racial relations and prejudice in South Africa, the apartheid system, and the 1994 South African democratic elections. The social setting also deals with generational differences and the influences of class and upbringing on beliefs and opinions.

The events are described by a limited third-person narrator, who borrows Mrs Mackenzie’s perspective. The narrator has access to Mrs Mackenzie's thoughts and feelings, which illustrate the reactions of white South Africans who have felt privileged under the apartheid regime.

The language used by the narrator is descriptive. The story is told through a mix of dialogue and narration, which helps convey the main character’s subjective perspective on the events and her circumstances.

You can read the full analysis in the following pages.