Religion (destroy?) vs. Education (enlighten?).

The Old and New Testament, Paganism - in evolution and civilization.

Art and War - in remembrance, progression and humanity.

I'm less a history buff than a fiction aficionado. I'm not equipped to verify or criticize the historical facts and associated reasoning. I immersed in the ocean of millennial saga, surrender to his craft. I'm not getting drowned but in fascination.

Less words are given to blacks (and colored) than to whites. However, they are the ones who left art (cave painting, architecture...) instead of war (fighting generals) memorial.

This is the first book by Michener I read, and I'm eager to read more. His works seem to offer a unique perspective on history, religion, art, and the diverse experiences of different races. I'm curious to explore further how he weaves these elements together to create a captivating and thought-provoking narrative. Maybe in the next book, I'll gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between these aspects of human civilization.

Michener has once again produced a great book (I had previously finished Chesapeake). I didn't know much about South Africa, except for a hazy idea of apartheid and the fact that they loved rugby. I really love the way Michener portrays people. He does an excellent job of showing the contradictions within them. People can be both great and terrible. In this day and age, it is important to remember this (it seems many people think in either/or terms).

I love the line, which I'm paraphrasing here: "Those who remember history and obsess over it are poisoned." This refers to the Afrikaners' preoccupation with their history and how they've been victimized, which has led them to view life in a certain way. Another example that comes to mind is Germany after WWI. The focus on their defeat and "shame" was indeed a major factor in allowing Hitler to rise to power. Poison indeed; it's a poignant thought from Michener.

I think this type of (historical) fiction can really help one to grow. It makes us think about different perspectives and understand the complexity of human nature and history.

Exhaustive and Engaging, yet with Some Flaws

I was truly impressed by the sheer breadth of history that this work covered. The detailed attention paid to the emergence of different cultures was remarkable. However, it is quite evident that the author seems to view the Afrikaner and the English as the main protagonists. The Indigenous African characters throughout the centuries are rather thinly sketched, if they are even included in the story at all. Mostly, they serve as an undifferentiated mass of "savage" villains, against which the European is able to showcase courage and virtue. The author's socialization is also palpable, as seen in the tic of the indigenous Africans speaking in incomplete sentences, while the Afrikaners do not use such when speaking English. Phrases like using "black" where "man" would be more appropriate made me cringe. These and other such glimpses into unconscious stereotypes and racial ideology at work in the author's storytelling are concerning. Nevertheless, it is ultimately an entertaining and expansive history. At times, it can be a little too exhaustive. In fact, it could probably be shortened by a third without losing its essence.

I must admit that I am an absolute Michener fanatic! When this book was first published, I devoured it, and so much of its content has remained firmly lodged in my memory over the years. This led me to decide to reread it. Firstly, let's talk about the page count - a whopping 1240 pages! Wow, just wow!!! Michener fills this book with an outstanding utilization of the county's history and then seamlessly blends his fictitious families into those events. As I read, I did a great deal of fact-checking, and I was amazed to find that he was spot-on with his historical details. Thanks to the internet, it was relatively easy for me to do this. He allows us to view Africa through the eyes of various competing groups that have lived and settled there, from the Hottentots to the Xhosa, and from the Dutch to the English. Through this, we gain an understanding of some of the reasoning behind the Boer (Dutch farmer) War and the eventual domination of the country. By the end of the book, he skillfully points out the mistakes of the Boers and their use of Apartheid to control and dominate a group of people and an entire country. Obviously, this book was written before the institution of Apartheid was dismantled, and I am certain that Michener would have loved to have added a few chapters to analyze how that happened and what has transpired in South Africa since then. However, this is still an amazing effort, especially considering it was written during his most productive years when he was also penning masterpieces like Chesapeake, Centennial, and Texas. It is truly well worth the time and effort to read this wonderful historical fiction novel. Without a doubt, he is the best in this genre!

The last time I delved into this book was approximately six years ago. At that time, I recall thinking that Michener seemed overly sympathetic towards the Afrikaners and, by extension, their cause of apartheid. Finding this morally repugnant, I firmly decided that I was finished with both this book and Michener himself.

Currently, however, I am undergoing a Michener-revival. After watching "Invictus", I thought I would give this book another chance.

Like all of Michener's books, this one is incredibly well-researched and highly involved. The characters span hundreds of years, with some of their descendants making appearances later in the story, while others do not. However, like most of the Michener books I have read, this one is also a fascinating read. And, as I discovered this time around, it is not necessarily sympathetic to the Afrikaners and their cause.

I believe that Michener demonstrates sympathies to all the groups he writes about, and this book is no exception. It is true that a significant portion of this book is dedicated to Afrikaner families, but that is to be expected in a book about South Africa. The reader should also take into account that this was written in 1979, and even if some characters express repugnant views, those are not necessarily the views of the author.

I don't think this is Michener's best novel. In my opinion, Hawaii, closely followed by The Source, are his finest works. Nevertheless, this is certainly a book worth reading.

I'm glad I re-read this. If you have a penchant for historical fiction, you will probably feel the same way.

Dizzyingly beautiful.

It gave me that feeling you used to get as a kid when you finished reading a story that lifted you off and brought you into its world.

It's truly an enchanting experience.

Along with Texas and Hawaii, this is a book I’m grateful to have discovered and read.

The moment I picked it up, I was drawn in.

Every page turned revealed new wonders and emotions.

And now, I cherish it dearly.

It has become a part of my literary collection that I will always hold dear.

The vivid descriptions and engaging plot make it a joy to read.

I can't wait to share this wonderful book with others and let them experience the same magic that I did.

It's a book that will stay with me for a long time.

South Africa has a rich and diverse history that spans over 1000 years. This epic tale can be seen from various perspectives, each shedding light on different aspects of the country's past.

From the early days of indigenous tribes, to the arrival of European settlers, and the struggles for independence and equality, South Africa's story is one of perseverance and transformation.

The different cultures and traditions that have influenced South Africa have also contributed to its unique identity. From the Zulu and Xhosa tribes, to the Afrikaans and English-speaking communities, each group has left its mark on the country.

Today, South Africa is a vibrant and dynamic nation, with a rich cultural heritage and a bright future. By looking at its history from different perspectives, we can gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people.

This book, which was published in 1980, contains a wealth of fascinating facts.

It begins with information about the B.P.E. (Before the present Era), with cave paintings in South Africa carbon dated at 13000 B.P.E.

The Hottentots, native to southwestern Africa and closely related to the Bushmen (the San people), have lived as hunter-gatherers in the Kalahari Desert for 80,000 years. Their unique clicking languages and trance dancing for healing have made them a source of worldwide interest.

The Huguenots, followers of John Calvin from France, ended up in South Africa in the 1600s. They faced persecution in France, such as the Saint Bartholomews Day massacre.

The Boers were farmers of Dutch or Huguenot descent in South Africa.

A Tsotsi is a member of a street gang.

The King's Nieces were young girls in orphanages in Holland.

The Afrikaners, Dutch Calvinists who settled in the Cape, believed God had given them the land and had a special covenant with Him. However, their rule stunted the normal growth of South Africa, especially in education.

The book also mentions historical events like the Anglo-Boer Wars, the role of leaders such as Cecil Rhodes and Paulus Kruger, and the evolution of South Africa's political landscape.

It further details the life and achievements of Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician who served as President. Mandela's struggle against apartheid, his imprisonment, and his efforts to foster racial reconciliation are all chronicled.

Mandela's personal life, including his three marriages and children, is also touched upon. Overall, this book provides a comprehensive look at South Africa's history and its people.

I read almost all of The Covenant by James A. Michener - for the second time. Maybe it was the third time? Certainly, the last time I read it was many, many years ago.

I have to be completely honest - I didn't finish it. I skimmed to the end. The despicable characters in the last three chapters and the origins of their racism - the stripping open of South Africa's racist past - were blunt and horrible. What ugly people they were! I needed some heroes, and these people weren't it. They were small and ugly.

Luckily, I have the advantage of knowing their future - they don't win. Although I kept thinking that the blacks in South Africa taking back their country from the whites was kin to American Indians taking back the United States. The US and South Africa were settled at approximately the same time. I imagine that the origin of species and constant contact with outsiders made blacks in Africa less susceptible to European disease than their New World counterparts.

Michener also did a whizzbang job fictionally painting why the New World developed one way and South Africa went another way. Certainly, it wasn't my favorite Michener.

All historical epics again have to end, and in my mind, Poland and The Covenant end the bleakest but the actual futures are the brightest.

A reread. The first time was 30 years ago. I still possess the original, extremely worn-out paperback, with all the essential scotch tape used to hold the pages together.

I discovered the book to be as captivating as it was during the first reading. Since then, the "Rainbow Nation" has come into existence. This event, one of the most positive occurrences in the 20th century, was at the back of my mind as I rushed to the part of the narrative where the concept of Apartheid comes alive in an Afrikaaner kitchen (while preparing gelatine of various colors).

Thirty years ago, the book concludes and the reader could only hope. However, last night, the reader could find comfort in the fact that racial justice has triumphed.

It is truly remarkable how this reread has brought back so many memories and emotions. The evolution of South Africa from the era of Apartheid to the present-day "Rainbow Nation" is a story of hope, perseverance, and ultimately, justice.

As I turned the pages of this well-worn book, I was reminded of the importance of never giving up on the fight for equality and fairness. The struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us have paved the way for a better future, and it is our responsibility to continue to work towards a more just and inclusive society.

This reread has been a powerful reminder of the power of literature to transport us to different times and places, and to make us reflect on the world around us. It has also given me a newfound appreciation for the progress that has been made in South Africa, and a renewed sense of determination to keep fighting for a better world.

This is truly great if you have a penchant for James Michener's books. His writing style is such that it reads and flows almost identically to a history textbook, yet it is brimming with captivating characters and events that significantly enhance the overall narrative. This particular work is similar to 'Alaska' in that the plot commences in prehistoric South Africa and gradually progresses into the 20th century. What sets it apart is the narrative that features characters with engaging dialogue, meaningful interaction, and seamless transitions into the future. The book chronicles the journey of prehistoric man, delves into the history of the diverse peoples of South Africa, explores the gradual colonization by the Dutch, the Trekboers and Afrikaners, highlights the tensions and wars such as the Zulu and the Bantu conflicts, the Boer Wars, and ultimately leads up to the Apartheid era of the 1900s.

One fascinating aspect of the book that I found quite neat was its title, ‘The Covenant.’ The title has its roots in how a Dutch family took it upon themselves to uphold a covenant with God. They regarded themselves as 'New Israelites' and felt an obligation to enter into a covenant with God in order to secure redemption. The relevant narrative can be found on pages 190 - 1:

“God had led the Israelites through such dark periods and He would the Dutchmen.

This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised...He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.
- Genesis 17:11, 13

And Abraham took Ishmael his son, and all that were born in his house, and all that were bought with his money, every male among the men of Abraham's house; and circumcised the flesh of their foreskin in the selfsame day, as God had said unto him.
- Genesis 17:23

And our covenant is baptism!"

This book is replete with a wealth of information, and I have gleaned a great deal from it. I would highly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in South Africa and desires to expand their knowledge further. Thanks!

A good read indeed!

As I delved into this piece, I was truly enlightened and gained a wealth of knowledge about the history of South Africa.

The author has done a remarkable job of presenting the events and facts in a clear and engaging manner.

From the early days of colonization to the struggles for independence and the subsequent social and political changes, every aspect has been covered comprehensively.

I found myself completely immersed in the story, learning about the different cultures, the impact of apartheid, and the efforts of the people to overcome adversity.

This read has not only broadened my understanding of South Africa's past but has also given me a new perspective on the country's present and future.

I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in history or looking to learn more about this fascinating nation.

It is a must-read for those who want to gain a deeper appreciation of the rich and complex history of South Africa.