What ‘Twin Obligations’ Does Mandela Mention in “Long Walk to Freedom”?
Long Walk to Freedom is a notable literary work by Nelson Mandela. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Long Walk to Freedom.
Answer
What ‘Twin Obligations’ Does Mandela Mention in “Long Walk to Freedom”? Describe.
In “Long Walk to Freedom” (1994), Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) talks about the “Twin obligations” that every person has in life. These obligations are the obligation to the family, the obligation to the community, and the nation.
The Obligation to the Family: Mandela says every individual has a duty to take care of their family. This means showing love, providing for them, and supporting them. A family is the foundation of a person’s life. Fulfilling this obligation helps to build strong relationships and values.
The Obligation to the Community and Nation: Mandela also explains that people have a responsibility to help their community and work for the betterment of their country. This includes standing up against injustice, helping others, and contributing to society. Mandela believed that everyone should fight for equality and freedom for all, not just for their own benefit.
Mandela felt that during apartheid, it was impossible for Black South Africans to fulfill these obligations. He writes,
In a country like South Africa, it was almost impossible for a man of my birth and color to fulfill both of these obligations.
Apartheid forced people to choose between their family and their fight for freedom. Mandela himself sacrificed time with his family to fight for justice.
In short, both obligations are equally important for creating a peaceful and fair society, and people should strive to balance them whenever possible.